Umerov: Involvement of DPRK's elite troops shows problems with mobilization in Russia

North Korea has already engaged about 11,000 elite troops in Russia's war against Ukraine. This indicates problems with mobilization in Russia itself, said Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, correspondent LIGA.net.

"Russia's use of the elite North Korean contingent indicates not only a deepening dependence on totalitarian regimes, but also real problems with the mobilization reserve. Together with our partners, we are monitoring these threats and will respond accordingly," he said .

According to the Ministry of Defense, the "elite contingent" refers to fighters specially selected by physical, psychological and other criteria from about 50,000 "personal reserve" of the Kim Jong-un regime .

North Korea's leader considered sending additional troops to Russia for the war against Ukraine. But this could deplete the strategic reserve and jeopardize his own security, the Defense Ministry said.

If the new units arrive in Russia, it will be the fourth wave of rotation. According to Ukrainian intelligence, the Kremlin has already lost several waves of the so-called "elite reserve of the DPRK." This confirms the enemy's high losses at the front and its limited ability to form new forces.

The Defense Ministry also noted that after signing the cooperation agreements, Russia is trying to use North Korea for its own purposes. It is about "military guarantees," according to which the countries are supposed to help each other in case of war.

"But in practice, the DPRK is wasting its resources, and Russia does not demonstrate mirror commitments. This is a matter of concern for North Korea itself," the agency emphasized .

• on June 19, it was reported that North Korea is considering sending about 25,000 workers to Russia for a drone manufacturing plant.
• On June 26, South Korea warned that the DPRK is preparing additional troops for Russia's summer offensive. Additional deployments can be expected in July or August.