U.S. Detects North Korean Troops in Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict, Says Defense Chief Lloyd Austin

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin revealed on Tuesday that North Korean troops have been spotted in Russia, marking a significant development in the alliance between two key U.S. adversaries.

This is the first public confirmation from a senior U.S. official regarding North Korean involvement in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

Austin’s remarks follow South Korean intelligence reports from last week, which indicated that North Korean commandos had been deployed to Russia, potentially to support Moscow’s military operations.

“Exactly what they’re doing is left to be seen,” Austin commented during a press briefing in Rome. The deployment raises concerns about the deepening cooperation between Russia and North Korea as the war in Ukraine continues.