Intercepted communications between Russian soldiers have unveiled concerns over the integration and management of North Korean troops, who are reportedly being deployed to assist Russia’s military efforts. The audio clips, released by Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence on Friday, reveal Russian soldiers questioning how they will command, equip, and coordinate these new recruits, referring to them as part of the so-called “K Battalion.”
In the intercepted conversations, Russian soldiers can be heard expressing their frustration and confusion about the incoming North Korean forces. At one point, a soldier disdainfully refers to the North Koreans as “the f*ing Chinese,” highlighting not only confusion but also underlying disapproval of their deployment. The soldier continued, mentioning a fellow serviceman who appeared visibly anxious about the task of receiving the North Korean troops, questioning, “What the fk to do with them?”
These communications were intercepted from encrypted Russian military channels on the night of October 23. According to Ukraine’s intelligence analysis, the conversations indicate that the North Korean troop movements were planned to take place on October 24, centered around the Postoyalye Dvory field camp in Russia’s Kursk region. This area, which borders Ukraine, has seen active military engagements, particularly after a surprise Ukrainian incursion earlier in the year.
Further excerpts from the audio reveal logistical concerns, including the need for adequate interpreters and command structures. Plans were reportedly in place to assign one interpreter and three senior officers for every 30 North Korean troops. However, the Russian soldiers criticized this plan, questioning the feasibility of providing such a number of commanding officers. “Where do we get them? We’ll have to pull them out,” one soldier was heard saying. Another added, “I’m f***ing telling you, there are 77 battalion commanders coming in tomorrow, there are commanders, deputy commanders, and so on.”
Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence service had previously reported on the presence of North Korean troops in Russia’s western regions, suggesting that these soldiers had received training in Russia’s Far East before being relocated to areas closer to the frontlines. A recent post on Ukraine’s official Telegram account noted that North Korean soldiers were sighted in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have maintained a presence since an incursion in August.
On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated he had received detailed reports on the deployment of North Korean military personnel from Ukraine’s commander-in-chief. “Intelligence indicates that Russia plans to deploy its first North Korean troops in combat zones on October 27-28,” said Zelensky, warning that this move represents a clear escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The Kremlin initially dismissed reports of North Korean involvement, but at the BRICS summit held in Kazan on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not deny that Pyongyang had sent troops. North Korea, in a statement on Friday, mentioned that any troop deployments to Russia would align with international law, although it did not explicitly confirm the presence of its military personnel. Previously, North Korea had denied similar reports, adding to the ambiguity surrounding their role.
Zelensky further criticized the developments, calling for international attention and action. “The involvement of North Korea should not be met with a blind eye or confused comments. There must be tangible pressure on both Moscow and Pyongyang to adhere to the UN Charter and deter further escalation,” he said. The Ukrainian President also pointed out that, despite Russia’s denials, recent events at the BRICS summit had underscored the seriousness of the situation.
As tensions continue to mount, the deployment of foreign troops adds a new layer of complexity to the conflict in Ukraine. The revelation of North Korean military presence signals not only potential cooperation between Russia and Pyongyang but also raises concerns about international ramifications and the future of security in the region.
