Ukrainian special forces successfully captured North Korean soldiers in Kursk, marking a significant achievement in their operations. Led by a commander known as “Green”, this elite unit managed to catch the North Koreans off-guard, overcoming significant odds. The operation highlighted the devastating casualty rates among North Korean troops while also indicating the effectiveness of Ukrainian drone warfare. The future trajectory of Russian and North Korean military efforts in this conflict remains uncertain.
Ukrainian special forces executed a successful operation against North Korean troops in western Russia’s Kursk region. A commander known only by the call sign “Green” described how Ukrainian drones initially identified North Korean forces preparing to assault Ukrainian positions. Prioritizing a preemptive strike, the Ukrainian unit aimed to capture a North Korean soldier alive, a feat previously unaccomplished. Clad in camouflage, they approached stealthily, avoiding detection until they engaged the enemy. “We approached like ghosts,” Green stated, highlighting the rapid nature of their mission.
The intensity of the conflict in Kursk resulted in significant casualties for North Korean troops, estimated to exceed 4,000 affected personnel. Despite the losses, reports indicated an increase in the effectiveness of their military capabilities due to combat exposure. “The battle was swift,” Green noted, emphasizing the North Koreans’ panicked retreat in response to the surprise assault. Capturing a North Korean soldier alive had previously eluded Ukrainian forces, although one soldier had succumbed to injuries shortly before succumbing to a captured scenario.
In late December, reports emerged that Ukraine had managed to capture two North Korean soldiers, who were subsequently turned over to the national security agency. However, the overall situation for Ukraine in Kursk appeared grim as North Korean reinforcements supported a Russian offensive reclaiming territory. An unspecified Ukrainian lawmaker noted, “I cannot say that the Kursk current situation happened because of North Koreans, but the effect of their participation is quite substantial.”
Green’s Tactical Group No. 84 gained recognition when President Zelensky announced the capture of North Korean soldiers. The Ukrainian elite unit operated with caution, as intelligence indicated North Korean soldiers were reportedly opting for suicide to avoid capture. During their operation, special forces observed the young North Korean fighter, described as weak and injured, who ultimately surrendered his weapons. Green recounted that the soldiers conversed using basic Korean phrases to communicate with the captured fighter.
Evidence suggested that North Korean soldiers faced significant challenges against Ukrainian drones on the battlefield. A captured soldier’s notes expressed discontent, describing North Korean forces as “bait” for Ukrainian drones, illustrating a dire tactical reality. Despite attempts to assist the wounded soldier, the operation entailed risks, including potential enemy surveillance. However, the mission’s coordination was executed flawlessly, without any Ukrainian casualties. Green expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity to gather intelligence from the captured soldier before evacuation took place.
Reports indicated that South Korea expressed readiness to accept North Korean prisoners if they preferred relocation to the South over returning home. This consideration highlights the complex geopolitical implications of the ongoing conflict, especially for North Korean troops embroiled in a war far from their homeland.
In summary, the Ukrainian special forces successfully executed an operation against North Korean troops in their territory, capturing soldiers alive for the first time, which had previously not been accomplished. The mission highlighted the shifting dynamics in the ongoing conflict, showcasing both the challenges faced by North Korean soldiers and the strategic gains enjoyed by Ukrainian forces. The broader implications for North Korean exposure in this war, alongside potential geopolitical outcomes, remain to be fully realized.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
