Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expects Russia to deploy North Korean soldiers from Sunday or Monday.

“This is a clear escalation,’’ Mr Zelensky said on the short message service X on Friday.

He cited intelligence information that the soldiers were to be deployed in the combat zone from October 27 or 28.

Mr Zelensky said this clearly shows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s intention to continue the war.

Mr Putin has not denied the reports of the transfer and training of North Korean soldiers to fight in Ukraine and had referred to military cooperation agreed with Pyongyang.

“The world can clearly see Russia’s true intentions: to continue the war. This is why a principled and strong response from global leaders is essential,’’ Mr Zelensky wrote.

He said there was a need for tangible pressure on Moscow and Pyongyang.

Mr Putin had previously said it was Russia’s business with whom it cooperated and added that the deal had been agreed upon between two sovereign states.

Russian state media also quoted Mr Putin as saying that Ukraine also chooses its partners in the West.

“We are repeatedly told that it is up to Ukraine how it ensures its security with or without NATO,’’ Mr Putin said.

(dpa/NAN)