Military intelligence reported first to Ukraine, then to the Pentagon, and finally one appeared series of videos. North Korean soldiers officially entered the battle and the first accident occurred (in the last hours there is a hundred debates). After the news, the question remains in the air: what does Pyongyang really help by helping Russia and entering into a conflict with Ukraine? The answer may be many, but there are many known information and facts giving an idea of the scope of this “alliance” with the Kremlin. Also about a nation that looks at every step when they send: China.
Historical context and unprecedented policy. For the first time in North Korea’s history destroyed the forces abroad by sending special units to support Russia in the war in Ukraine. The plan abandons the tradition with the government of keeping soldiers on national territory do not use “bad” ideas exposed to other companies.
But this fear is not in vain, because In 1992 in the military region against the tried things organized by officers who studied in Moscow during perestroika. Even Kim Jong-un, with a pragmatic rather than ideological foreign policy, has decided to take risks in search of strategic and economic benefits.
Enter the accounts. Known variously, and some of us are numbered these months. It can be understood as sent soldiers long-term investment to strengthen relations with Russia we aspire to a return to the relationship of mutual support that existed during the Cold War. Although Pyongyang already super legal oil (The BBC revealed the program), food and money to pay their salaries, also seeks to provide continuous resources and the ability to access advanced nuclear and aviation technologywhich, however, has a more dangerous chance, since Moscow, at least for now, is reluctant to communicate.
Furthermore, we cannot ignore when the economy is undermined by international sanctions and the impact of the pandemic, North Korea sees this partnership as an opportunity to have foreign money by sending workers and soldiersnor access to crude oil and other vital substances. By sending North Korean troops, Russia can also free up auxiliary forces for other fronts, which could have a significant impact on strategic areas of conflict. According to the New York TimesNorth Korea reportedly spends up to $5.5 billion on weapons, has so far tested its KN-23 and KN-24 missiles, weighed against Western defense systems, and adopted new innovations such as the use of drones.
Challenges on earth. The first leg to act is certainly to the structure of the government. In this regard, the chain in the North Korean army prioritizes preventing military affairs in operational effectiveness. This includes official decision-making that requires approval from multiple levels, which can be difficult to achieve in a dynamic conflict environment like Ukraine.
In addition, and, as we said yesterday, the North Korean cohorts or are they lacking in our present struggles?especially against technologies such as drones, widely used in Ukraine. More and just than important; language barrier complicate coordination with Russian forces as is already happening. lastly, that he might face a freer and more cultivated army, the danger of deserters; constant fear of Pyongyang.
Geographical implications: China. While China is helping to tolerate North Korean intervention, it is helping Russia avoid defeat; Beijing does not seem to accept it For Russia to provide Pyongyang with advanced nuclear technology, as this could destabilize the region. On the other hand, South Korea fears that this military partnership could facilitate access to North Korean technology that could eventually be used against Seoul.
Not only that. Train deployment and economic cooperation with Moscow he could concentrate with Chinahistoric and main trading partner and partner and increasing international pressure. Put another way, Moscow’s strategic dependence may limit Kim’s ability to balance both relations and his diplomatic autonomy.
The future of friendship. So, while North Korea allows society to gain time and resources, it also raises questions about its sustainability. Russia, although a crucial partner in the short term; represents less than 2% of North Korea’s international tradewhile China is still responsible for more than 90%.
The numbers at that point are quite clear, and this economic dependence on Beijing, combined with the dangers inherent in a military partnership with Russia, leaves Pyongyang in a precarious and uncertain position. At issue: maintaining the support of allies without any threat to national security or their economy.
Image | Executive Office of the Presidency of Russia
In Xataka | North Korea has officially entered the war in Ukraine, despite one lethal obstacle: language
In Xataka | Ukraine had an idea directed at the North Koreans in Russia: to offer them not to return to Pyongyang.
