Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder conducts a press briefing at the Pentagon, Nov. 4, 2024.
By Smartencyclopedia with Agencies
Washington, D.C. — The Pentagon announced that approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers are currently stationed in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, with estimates suggesting this number could be closer to 11,000 to 12,000 troops. The announcement by Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed North Korea’s contribution to Russia’s war efforts, noting that these troops are receiving training in infantry tactics, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations, artillery, and trench-clearing maneuvers. Russian forces have supplied them with uniforms and equipment as they prepare for potential combat roles in Ukraine.
In a Pentagon briefing, Maj. Gen. Ryder stated that North Korean forces engaged in direct combat would be considered “legitimate military targets” for Ukrainian defense forces. “If these troops engage in combat support operations against Ukraine,” Ryder emphasized, “they would become legitimate military targets.” This assertion aligns with recent remarks from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, underscoring that the U.S. stands by Ukraine’s right to defend itself amid the expanding international presence in the conflict.
While there is no confirmed evidence yet of North Korean soldiers participating in active combat, Pentagon officials say their deployment likely signals an attempt to compensate for Russia’s mounting losses. “They are probably coming in to replace the massive losses that Russia is experiencing,” Ryder said, noting the high casualty rates that have reportedly weakened Russia’s military. He added, “I certainly would not want to be a North Korean soldier there,” a remark reflecting concerns over the risks these soldiers face in the conflict zone.
Strengthened U.S. Defense in the Middle East
The Pentagon briefing also highlighted an increased U.S. military presence in the Middle East, a precaution amid rising regional tensions. Secretary Austin ordered additional B-52 bombers, ballistic missile defense destroyers, fighter squadrons, and tanker aircraft into the area. B-52s have already arrived, and the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group will soon rotate out, succeeded by the new deployments to ensure ongoing protection for U.S. assets in the region.
Alongside a Marine Expeditionary Unit, the U.S. has stationed a terminal high-altitude area defense (THAAD) system in Israel to deter potential threats. The latest deployments emphasize the Pentagon’s “flexible global defense posture,” according to Ryder, who reiterated the United States’ commitment to defending its personnel and interests from hostile actions by Iran, its allies, or its proxies. The U.S. aims to maintain stability in the Middle East while supporting allies such as Israel through proactive deterrence and diplomatic efforts.
As this international alignment develops, the Pentagon remains vigilant over the evolving roles of North Korean forces in Russia and potential implications for the broader regional balance.