Audio messages intercepted by Ukrainian intelligence have offered a revealing glimpse into the complexities of the Russo-North Korean alliance – and the growing frustration among Russian soldiers regarding the deployment of North Korean troops to fight in Ukraine.
The North Korean deployment has divided analysts. Some argue that operational hurdles, language barriers, and differing military practices will hinder their combat effectiveness. Others, however, believe that historical familiarity between the North Koreans and their Russian counterparts will mitigate these issues.
A recent interception, released by Ukrainian intelligence, captures Russian troops in the Kursk region expressing disbelief over how the North Korean soldiers, dubbed the “K Battalion”, will be commanded and equipped.
The soldiers vent their frustrations, using expletives and referring to the North Koreans dismissively as “the Chinese”. One soldier remarks about a fellow serviceman tasked with welcoming the North Koreans, saying, “He’s just standing there with his eyes wide open”.
Identified as members of Russia’s 810th Separate Marine Brigade, the soldiers voice scepticism about the Kremlin’s logistical plans.
“They’re already here learning with a translator,” a Russian soldier can be heard saying on the intercept. Reports in the Kyiv Post newspaper indicate a strategy of assigning one translator and three Russian personnel for every 30 North Korean troops.
