Treatment of Wounded Russian Soldiers in North Korea: Insights…

Russian soldiers wounded in the Ukraine conflict are receiving treatment in North Korea, according to Russian Ambassador Alexander Matsegora. This cooperation is part of a larger strategic partnership that has developed between the two countries, which is increasingly focused on military collaboration in response to Western pressures. The ambassador noted the free medical services offered and the support extended to families of fallen soldiers.

In a recent interview, Alexander Matsegora, Russia’s ambassador to North Korea, disclosed that Russian soldiers injured in the conflict in Ukraine are receiving treatment and rehabilitation in North Korea. This revelation highlights the growing ties between North Korea and Russia, particularly in response to perceived threats from Western nations, which has created international tensions.

Following the establishment of a strategic partnership agreement in fall 2024, both nations have enhanced their cooperation in trade, science, technology, and defense. Notably, while the agreement did not specifically mention the treatment of injured Russian military personnel, it has become a component of their bilateral relations. Matsegora described the medical care provided in North Korea as free and of high quality, stating that “hundreds” of Russian soldiers have been treated in North Korean hospitals and sanatoriums.

He noted the sensitivity of the relationship, indicating that when Russia proposed to cover some costs for the treatment, North Korean officials were “sincerely offended and asked us never to do it again”. Additionally, Matsegora mentioned that children of Russian soldiers killed in the conflict are enjoying vacations in North Korea, and that exchanges of university students between the two countries are underway.

Furthermore, trade relations are robust, with Russia supplying North Korea with essential goods such as coal, food, and medicine. Military ties have also strengthened, with President Vladimir Putin signing a mutual defense pact with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in June 2024. Shortly thereafter, North Korea expanded its military involvement in the conflict, allegedly providing arms to Russia and deploying up to 12,000 troops to assist in the Kursk Oblast region against potential Ukrainian offensives.

The relationship between Russia and North Korea has significantly evolved, particularly in military and humanitarian aspects concerning Russian soldiers wounded in Ukraine. With free treatment provided in North Korean facilities and increased military cooperation, these developments reflect a deepening strategic partnership that poses challenges to international stability. The growing military exchanges underscore the alignment of both nations against Western influences.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com