Brussels: North Korea's military involvement in Ukraine is a "strategic mistake," the chairman of NATO's military committee said Thursday, while also criticizing China.
According to Anadolu Agency, Admiral Rob Bauer highlighted during a news conference following the Military Committee in Chiefs of Defense meeting in Brussels that both Russia and China have permitted North Korea's involvement in the Ukraine conflict. Bauer stated that these countries have ceased supporting United Nations Security Council resolutions concerning North Korea's missile and nuclear programs.
Bauer emphasized the significant implications of North Korea's participation, noting that it represents a dramatic shift as the isolated nation now plays a role in the European conflict. He warned of the unforeseen connection between the Indo-Pacific and European theaters, indicating substantial consequences.
Describing North Korea's presence as a "strategic mistake," Bauer pointed out the unknown performance capability of North Korean forces. He revealed that approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers are stationed in the Kursk region, with a third either wounded or killed, and highlighted language barriers affecting their efficiency.
South Korea's National Intelligence Service reported that at least 300 North Korean soldiers were killed and around 2,700 injured in combat with Ukraine, according to Yonhap news. Bauer also noted coordination issues between Russian and North Korean forces and their unfavorable deployment.
Criticizing China's position, Bauer called for a unified NATO response. He stressed that China cannot maintain good relations with the West while fueling conflict in Europe. The unclear direction of the Russian-Chinese relationship and its long-term effects were also highlighted as concerns.
Admiral Pierre Vandier, Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, underscored the need for NATO to innovate and adapt swiftly to stay ahead of adversaries. While the US and NATO support claims of North Korean troop presence, Pyongyang has remained silent despite reports of casualties.
The deployment reports carry weight following Pyongyang and Moscow's defense pact last year, which obligates mutual military support in case of external aggression. As the Russia-Ukraine war nears its third anniversary, it continues to result in significant casualties and displacement.
Officials reiterated unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing that NATO policies remain constant despite changes in US leadership, with President-elect Donald Trump set to assume office. Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Christopher G. Cavoli, affirmed NATO's enduring commitment to Ukraine through established structures and procedures, reassuring Ukrainian military leadership of continued support.