North Korean troops, who have reportedly been fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine for approximately five months, are now facing significant food shortages, according to information from Kyiv’s intelligence unit. The Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) recently shared an update via Telegram, highlighting that some of the foreign troops supporting Moscow are suffering from malnutrition as a direct result of inadequate food supplies necessary for their daily operations.
Most of these North Korean soldiers are stationed in the Kursk region, where hostilities have ramped up following a surprise incursion by Ukrainian forces in August. In response to these shortages, the Russian government has taken measures to address the situation. Reports indicate that the deputy commander for resource support has been dispatched to the area to implement a solution. This official has reportedly ordered the procurement of food rations from the reserves of airborne assault brigades to help alleviate the hunger crisis affecting the North Korean troops.
According to the US Department of Defense, following a mutual defense treaty signed with Moscow, Pyongyang has managed to send over 10,000 soldiers to bolster Russian military efforts in Ukraine. These reinforcements have been deployed across various frontlines, including the Kursk Oblast. US Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder commented on the situation, stating that there are expectations for these North Korean forces to provide a level of combat or combat support capability.
The involvement of North Korean troops has already resulted in their first casualties, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the deaths of North Korean soldiers during the conflict. Furthermore, Ukrainian military reports indicate that they have successfully destroyed a North Korean Bulsae-4 anti-tank missile system utilizing a suicide drone, showcasing the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the challenges faced by foreign troops on the ground.
