In August, Russia is preparing to launch a large-scale offensive against Ukraine at the expense of additional DPRK soldiers - mass media

North Korea may send additional troops to Russia as early as August 2025 to participate in the war against Ukraine. This was reported by Reuters with reference to statements by South Korean parliamentarians and intelligence.

As noted by MP Lee Song-Kwoon after a closed briefing with representatives of the National Intelligence Service of South Korea (NIS), the estimated time of transfer of the North Korean military to Russia is August. According to the NIS, Russia is preparing a major offensive in Ukraine, and the possible participation of the DPRK is linked to these plans.

Pyongyang, according to intelligence information, has already started mobilisation to send troops to Russia. In addition, a representative of the Russian Security Council visited North Korea in May, which may indicate coordination between the countries.

It is also reported that under a new defence pact signed in June 2024 at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, North Korea is supplying Russia with artillery shells and missiles, and in return it is receiving technology to launch satellites and guidance systems.

The deepening co-operation between Moscow and Pyongyang has raised concerns in the region. The US and South Korea have already condemned the possible participation of the DPRK in the war, stressing that it increases North Korea's international isolation and destabilises the situation in the region," the agency said.