North Korea is reportedly preparing to triple the number of troops supporting Russia on the front lines of its war against Ukraine, with plans to send an additional 25,000 to 30,000 soldiers, according to a Ukrainian intelligence assessment obtained by CNN.
The report suggests that the troops could arrive in Russia in the coming months, adding to the 11,000 North Korean soldiers already deployed since November 2024, when they were sent to help repel Ukrainian advances in the Kursk region.
A satellite image from May 18, 2025, shows a ship docked at Dunay port in Russia, linked to previous deployments. According to Western sources, around 4,000 North Korean troops have been killed or wounded so far, but Pyongyang continues to strengthen its cooperation with Moscow.
The assessment reveals that Russia’s Ministry of Defense is expected to provide North Korean forces with all necessary equipment, weapons, and ammunition to further integrate them into Russian combat units. It adds that there is a “strong likelihood” that these troops will be deployed into active combat roles in Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine, including during large-scale offensive operations.
Satellite imagery of North Korea’s Sunan Airport, taken on June 4, 2025, shows what appear to be military cargo planes on the runway. These aircraft may be involved in the mass mobilization and transport of troops.
The report also notes that Russian military aircraft are being reconfigured for personnel transport, reflecting a massive relocation effort of tens of thousands of foreign troops across Siberia, which borders North Korea in the southwest.
Another satellite image, taken on April 15, 2025, shows what analysts believe is an expanded joint military camp for Russian and North Korean forces in Postoyalye Dvory, Kursk region, Russia.
The images and intelligence also suggest new deployment preparations are underway, including the arrival of ships at Russian ports and cargo aircraft movements in North Korea—mirroring activity linked to past deployments.
