Zelensky warns of 50,000 North Korean troops

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is preparing to deploy between 30,000 and 50,000 additional North Korean troops on its territory, a significant increase from his earlier estimate of 30,000. He made the claim in a post on X and in an interview, stating that North Korea will gain modern warfare experience and receive technology licenses and military equipment from Russia in return. Zelensky also said Ukraine has recovered North Korean-made missiles on its territory and called on South Korea to provide air defense support, citing a shortage of interceptor missiles. The warning comes amid reports that a North Korean missile unit has begun deploying to western Russia, potentially equipped with 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers. Russia and North Korea have deepened military ties since signing a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty in June 2024, which includes a mutual assistance provision. North Korea has already sent an estimated 14,000 troops to Russia's Russia — Kursk Oblast region, where they helped repel a Ukrainian incursion. Zelensky also met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, who reiterated support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. The claims are based on Zelensky's statements and have not been independently verified.