World
November 11, 2024 11:30
moscow - According to reports, a large number of Russian and North Korean soldiers have been surrounded in the Ukrainian-occupied part of Koersk, with an offensive expected to start soon.
According to the New York Times, Russian and some North Korean soldiers are among the forces surrounded in the area. The offensive is said to begin within a few days, as reported by sources from both sides.
Ukraine's initial invasion several months ago aimed to force the Russians to withdraw soldiers from the eastern front, weakening their forces. However, recent developments indicate that the assembled army may consist of fresh troops.
In a surprise move in August this year, Ukrainian forces crossed into the Russian province of Koersk and quickly gained control of 1600 square kilometers. Despite Russian attempts to push them back with long-range missiles and artillery, only half of the territory has been reclaimed. It appears that Putin has now decided it's time for a major frontal assault with his own troops.
Additional forces from North Korea, described as 'elite troops' from Kim Jong-un's regime, are expected to be used in the offensive. However, they lack combat experience and may be at risk of being used as cannon fodder.
American intelligence suggests that these North Korean troops may be deployed as individual infantry soldiers without the usual protection of armored vehicles, a tactic that previously resulted in significant Russian losses. The effectiveness of this strategy with North Korean forces remains uncertain.
These North Korean troops will receive brief training on the use of Russian weapons before being sent into the field armed with machine guns, sniper rifles, grenades, and anti-tank rockets.
Despite ongoing casualties among Russian troops, the arrival of North Korean forces has provided a boost for Putin's military strategy. With a reported loss of 1200 soldiers daily and the need for 25,000 new recruits monthly to sustain their forces, the Russian military is under significant strain. The British Ministry of Defense estimates that 650,000 Russian soldiers have been incapacitated since the invasion began.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) speculates that North Korea could supply 15,000 soldiers per month. Ukrainian sources suggest a total of 100,000 troops may be involved. ISW highlights the discipline advantage of North Korean troops over Russian soldiers.