Putin hints at North Korean troop presence in Russia, defies U.S. warnings
Russian President Vladimir Putin has neither confirmed nor denied recent U.S. allegations that North Korea has sent thousands of soldiers to Russia, potentially for deployment in Ukraine.
Speaking on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan on October 24, 2024, Putin remarked on Russia’s cooperative relationship with North Korea, underscoring Moscow’s right to decide how it manages its alliances.
“Russia never doubted that the DPRK is serious about our cooperation,” Putin stated when asked to respond to the U.S. claims. “What we will do is our business,” he added, hinting at the strategic autonomy Russia exercises in its defense partnerships.
The U.S. raised concerns on Wednesday, asserting that it had obtained evidence of 3,000 North Korean troops allegedly sent to support Russian efforts in Ukraine. This revelation has heightened tensions, with Western officials viewing it as an escalation in the ongoing conflict.
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Putin highlighted that Russia’s relationship with North Korea is supported by a mutual defense clause under Article 4 of their partnership agreement, saying, “There is Article 4. We have never doubted that North Korea takes our agreements seriously. But what we do within the framework of this article is our business.”
Responding to questions about satellite images showing purported North Korean troop movements, Putin acknowledged the potential validity of such images but declined to confirm any specific details.
As the Ukraine conflict continues, Putin emphasized that Russia remains open to peace negotiations, provided they reflect “realities on the ground.” He reiterated that any peace deal must recognize Russian-held territories, including the annexed regions of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhia.
Putin also suggested that the future of Russia-U.S. relations hinges on Washington’s openness following the upcoming U.S. presidential election, stating, “If they are open, then we will also be open.”
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