China aware of North Korean troops in Russia despite denials, says former US diplomat

China is fully aware of North Korean troops supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine, despite Beijing’s denials, according to Matt Brazil, a former US Army officer and diplomat. This development could reshape regional dynamics, particularly as South Korea plans to supply weapons to Ukraine.

South Korea’s intelligence reports indicate Pyongyang has sent 3,000 troops to Russia, with plans to deploy 10,000 by December. According to the Ukrainian military, the first North Korean units, after training at Russia’s eastern grounds, have already arrived in Russia’s Kursk Oblast combat zone.

Ukrainian military, the first North Korean units, after training at Russia’s eastern grounds, have already arrived in Russia’s Kursk Oblast combat zone.

“Beijing wouldn’t allow Russia and North Korea to make deals that could destabilize East Asia without its oversight,” Brazil told Euromaidan Press. “Any arrangements made without Chinese knowledge would seriously strain the Russia-China-North Korea alliance.”

Brazil explains that China’s involvement reflects broader geopolitical goals. Beijing aims to weaken the US-led international order and block NATO’s influence in Asia, advancing its core objectives: annexing Taiwan, controlling the South China Sea, and securing vital maritime routes.

“Supporting Russia in Ukraine helps undermine NATO, serving these broader aims,” Brazil notes.

However, this strategy could backfire—the presence of North Korean forces near European borders might actually strengthen NATO unity, as the prospect of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces near their borders could galvanize Western opposition.

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