North Korea has joined the Ukrainian fight by sending troops to help Russia in its fight against Ukraine.

According to the New York Times, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III confirmed this deployment which he called a “very serious” escalation.

Speaking from a military base in Italy, Mr Austin stated that the North Korean involvement in the war could mark a turning point in Russia’s strategy, though he offered few details on the scope of their mission.

“What exactly are they doing? That remains to be seen,” he said, without specifying the number of troops already in Russia or how many more might be sent.

The U.S. intelligence reports stated that satellite images would soon be released showing North Korean troops arriving in Russia’s Vladivostok region for training.

Though none have yet reached Ukraine, it’s believed that up to 12,000 North Korean soldiers were preparing to join Russian forces.

Current estimates suggested that around 2,500 North Korean soldiers were already on Russian soil, but their ability to adapt to unfamiliar conditions, including language barriers and different combat techniques, remained unclear.

The Russian government has not commented on these reports, having previously denied North Korea’s military involvement.

However, experts say this move reflects Russia’s increasing reliance on foreign reinforcements, especially as the war takes a toll on its own forces.

With over 600,000 Russian troops reportedly killed or wounded, President Vladimir Putin is seeking support from allies such as North Korea and other mercenary groups.

This emerging alliance between Russia and North Korea is being closely monitored, as it could have far-reaching consequences for global military dynamics and the outcome of the Ukraine conflict.