North Korea to Send Military Builders and Deminers to Russia’s Kursk Region

North Korea will send military builders and deminers to aid Russia’s Kursk region restoration after Ukraine’s incursion. This was confirmed by Russian security chief Sergei Shoigu during talks with Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang. The collaboration is part of a broader military agreement between the two nations, emphasizing strong ties amid ongoing conflict.

North Korea is set to send military builders and deminers to Russia’s Kursk region, following discussions between Russian security chief Sergei Shoigu and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. This information was relayed by various Russian news agencies on June 17 during Shoigu’s visit to Pyongyang. It’s reported that this assistance aims to aid in the restoration of the region affected by Ukraine’s operations.

This marks a significant moment as North Korea has become a noteworthy ally of Russia amid Moscow’s ongoing military efforts in Ukraine, particularly over the past three years. Troops from North Korea have previously helped in the battle to dislodge Ukrainian forces from Kursk. Now, additional specialist forces are set to be deployed for reconstruction purposes.

Shoigu indicated, “North Korea will send a division of builders and two military brigades, amounting to around 5,000 personnel, along with 1,000 deminers to the region.” This gesture of support was characterized as “fraternal assistance from the Korean people and leader Kim Jong Un to our country.”

After the meeting, North Korean state media described the atmosphere as friendly and trustworthy. Kim reportedly expressed support for increased cooperation between the nations, although no specifics were disclosed. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), discussions between the two leaders also covered immediate collaborative efforts and long-term strategic plans, which stem from prior agreements via personal letters exchanged in recent weeks.

This move arrives on the heels of a notable military agreement established between Russia and North Korea last year, which included a mutual defense clause, assisting Putin’s noteworthy visit to North Korea. There are also reports indicating that North Korea has been supplying arms to support Russia’s activities in Ukraine. In earlier talks earlier this month, Kim and Shoigu expressed a mutual desire to enhance relations, aiming to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership.

In summary, North Korea’s impending deployment of military builders and deminers to Russia underscores the deepening ties between the two countries amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As both nations pursue increased collaboration, this military agreement reflects an evolving strategic partnership that may have broader implications for regional stability.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com