Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has described reports of Russia calling on North Korean troops to support its war in Ukraine as a sign of President Vladimir Putin’s growing desperation.
Speaking in Berlin after a key meeting with U.S., French, and German leaders, Starmer said that Russia’s increasing reliance on outside help underscores the mounting difficulties it faces in the conflict.
Intelligence from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggests that as many as 10,000 North Korean soldiers could be deployed to bolster Russian forces.
South Korean intelligence agencies have also issued warnings that Pyongyang may have already begun sending troops to aid Moscow, as Russia’s battlefield losses and resource shortages continue to grow.
In light of these developments, Starmer expressed concern but also noted that the move reveals significant weaknesses in Russia’s war effort.
“If it’s true, then to my mind, it shows a level of desperation in relation to Russia,” Starmer said.
He added that the reports suggest Moscow is struggling with both a shortage of military personnel and dwindling resources.
“Russia is in a difficult position in terms of the number of casualties and the financial strain this war is placing on them,” he continued.
“If they are now turning to North Korean soldiers, it looks more like an act of desperation than anything else.”
Starmer’s remarks came after a crucial meeting between Western leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
They reaffirmed their unified support for Ukraine as it braces for a difficult winter.
The leaders discussed ways to accelerate military aid and ensure Ukraine has the resources it needs to resist the ongoing Russian invasion.
Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s strong commitment to Ukraine.
He said: “We remain united in our support for Ukraine. We have always said it is for the Ukrainian people to decide their own future. So we’re clear, together with President Zelenskyy, that the only acceptable outcome is a sovereign Ukraine and a just peace.”
