Zelensky expects Ukrainian and North Korean soldiers to clash in Kursk

(Patria) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he expects clashes between North Korean and Ukrainian troops within days, reports Newsweek.

- North Korean troops have so far not taken part in battles. They are preparing to take part in battles in Kursk - Zelensky said in an interview with South Korea's national public broadcaster.

Western leaders have expressed concern over reports that North Korea has sent about 10,000 soldiers to assist Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.

This has raised concerns that Pyongyang's deepening involvement in the European war could destabilize the Indo-Pacific region, particularly affecting security dynamics involving Japan and Australia.

Zelensky confirmed that he recently discussed this with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, warning him that some 3,000 North Korean soldiers are already stationed near the Ukrainian front line, with expectations that the number could soon rise to 12,000.

U.S. Department of Defense spokesman Pat Ryder said Tuesday that a relatively small number of North Korean soldiers have arrived in Russia's Kursk region, where Russian forces are battling Ukrainian counter-offensives.

He added that an additional contingent of several thousand is currently en route to the area.