Zelensky warns that North Korea will deploy up to 50,000 troops in Russia and asks for help from South Korea

President Volodimir Zelensky of Ukraine warned Saturday that up to 50,000 North Korean soldiers could be deployed in Russian territory to fight alongside Moscow’s forces, significantly raising previous estimates of Pyongyang's involvement in the war. The Ukrainian leader shared this information via social media, though he did not specify how he obtained the data. Earlier in July, Zelensky had estimated around 30,000 North Korean troops would be sent to Russia. Zelensky also claimed that Ukrainian forces have discovered North Korean missiles that fell within Ukrainian territory, although he did not reveal their exact location. He emphasized that the presence of North Korean troops not only strengthens Russian military capabilities but also provides Pyongyang with valuable experience and access to advanced weaponry from Russia. According to Zelensky, the regime under Kim Jong-un will gain licenses and equipment from Russia as part of its growing military collaboration. In response to this situation, Zelensky called upon South Korea to deepen its military cooperation with Ukraine, particularly in areas such as air defense systems. He expressed interest in a potential agreement known as the "Drone Deal," which would involve the supply of unmanned aerial vehicles. Zelensky stated that Ukrainian diplomats are already engaging with South Korean officials to explore possible agreements. The increased involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict follows the June 2024 signing of a strategic partnership treaty between President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un during Putin's visit to Pyongyang. This agreement includes mutual support in case either country faces external aggression, and North Korea has framed the deployment of its troops as assistance to a close ally under this accord. Previously, it was estimated that approximately 14,000 North Korean soldiers were stationed in the Russian region of Kursk in 2024, contributing to the repelling of a major Ukrainian incursion. Zelensky's new estimate suggests a substantial increase in the number of North Korean troops operating in Russian territory, indicating a more pronounced military role for Pyongyang. Meanwhile, tensions remain high as both sides continue launching attacks. Pope Francis urged Russia and Ukraine to halt hostilities and give diplomacy a chance, while Zelensky announced plans to engage with mediators to seek a negotiated resolution. However, Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin accused Zelensky and his inner circle of prolonging the conflict to maintain power, stating that Russia has no choice but to pursue its military objectives in Ukraine. The situation escalated further after a Ukrainian drone attack on Nizhnekamsk, located in the Republic of Tatarstan, approximately 1,000 kilometers away from the front lines. Moscow reported that 13 people, including a child, died in the strike, with another 75 injured. The Ukrainian military claimed responsibility for the operation, stating that the target was the Taneko refinery owned by the Tatneft group. These developments highlight the ongoing complexity and volatility of the conflict, underscoring the need for continued diplomatic efforts.