Zelensky says North Korean troops will be in Ukraine within days

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expects Russia to deploy North Korean soldiers from Sunday or Monday.

“This is a clear escalation,” Zelensky said on Friday on X.

He cited intelligence information suggesting that the North Korean units are to be deployed in the combat zone from October 27 or 28.

The move clearly shows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intention to continue the war, Zelensky argued.

He said Putin has not denied the reports of the transfer and training of North Korean soldiers to fight in Ukraine.

“The world can clearly see Russia’s true intentions: to continue the war. This is why a principled and strong response from global leaders is essential,” Zelensky wrote.

He said there was a need for tangible pressure on Moscow and Pyongyang.

Zelensky’s comments came one day after Russia’s lower house of parliament ratified an overarching partnership treaty with North Korea.

Speaking in the Russian city of Kazan, Putin on Thursday dismissed widespread criticism of Pyongyang’s deployment of troops.

“We have never doubted that the North Korean leadership takes our agreements seriously. What we do and how we will do it under this article is our business,” Putin said.

Germany’s Scholz concerned over reports

Also on Friday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the reports of North Korean troops being sent to Russia as “very worrying.”

“This cannot be underestimated,” he told journalists during his trip to India. “This is, of course, something that further escalates the situation.”

Scholz said the move shows that Putin is in dire straits.

It is also a reason to continue to strive for a just peace, he argued, and to provide “firm, reliable” support for Ukraine.