Overview

• Ukrainian forces have identified North Korean soldiers operating near Kharkiv, marking their first confirmed presence on Ukrainian soil.
• South Korean and U.S. estimates suggest over 10,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, with potential increases up to 100,000.
• In exchange for troop deployments, Russia has provided North Korea with air defense systems and military technology to bolster its satellite program.
• North Korea has supplied Russia with heavy weaponry, including rocket launchers and self-propelled howitzers, for use in the Ukraine conflict.
• The two nations have formalized a defense agreement this year, committing to mutual military support in the event of conflict.