North Korea to Send Military Engineers to Support Russia’s War Effort in Ukraine

North Korea's decision to dispatch military engineers to aid Russia in Ukraine comes after the signing of a defence pact, drawing criticism from the Pentagon. This move is part of the deepening military and economic ties between the two countries amidst global tensions.

North Korea is set to send military engineers to Ukraine to support Russia's war effort in the Donetsk region next month. This development follows a defense pact signed on June 19, 2024, during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to Pyongyang, his first in 24 years. The pact entails military assistance in case of external aggression. The Pentagon has criticized this move, highlighting the risks to North Korean troops. Additionally, North Korea has been supplying Russia with ammunition and artillery shells.

In a related event, a North Korean hypersonic missile exploded midair shortly after launching from near Pyongyang on June 26, 2024. This failed launch occurred at an altitude of about 100 kilometers, scattering debris over several kilometers. This followed North Korea and Russia's mutual defense treaty signed during Putin's visit, which has drawn criticism from South Korea, the U.S., and Japan.

Amidst these developments, Russia plans to resume direct passenger rail service with North Korea in July, marking the first such service since the COVID-19 pandemic. This was confirmed by Oleg Kozhemyako, governor of Russia’s Primorsky Krai region.

These actions signify deepening ties between Russia and North Korea, especially in military and economic domains, amid ongoing global tensions and regional conflicts.