On October 31, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun at the State Department in Washington, D.C. The meeting focused on growing security concerns as North Korea deepens its involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
US officials announced that up to 8,000 North Korean soldiers are now stationed in Russia’s Kursk region and may soon enter combat against Ukrainian forces. These troops have reportedly been trained in artillery, drones, and trench warfare, suggesting they are prepared for front-line operations. While the US has not observed these forces in action yet, Blinken warned that if they engage in combat, they would be considered “legitimate military targets.”
The deployment of North Korean troops, which represents a majority of the estimated 10,000 North Korean forces sent to Russia, raises concerns about a strengthening alliance between Russia and North Korea. Secretary Austin confirmed that the US is working closely with its allies, including South Korea, to address these developments, promising additional support for Ukraine in the days ahead.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged South Korea to play a more active role, warning that North Korean troops are likely to suffer heavy losses as Russia attempts to limit its own mobilization. When asked if Ukraine could hold its position in Kursk, Austin responded with confidence, noting that Russia has already suffered substantial losses in the prolonged conflict.
Additionally, the US called on China to use its influence with North Korea to curb these actions. Blinken emphasized that China should be concerned about the growing partnership between North Korea and Russia, as it threatens regional stability.
This meeting highlights the US-South Korea alliance’s commitment to regional security and a coordinated global response to the escalating conflict.
