Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a significant claim regarding military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. According to Zelenskyy, a decision has been made to deploy between 30,000 and 50,000 North Korean troops to Russia. He also stated that Ukraine has recovered North Korean missiles from its territory. However, Zelenskyy did not disclose the source of the information regarding the proposed troop deployment and the missiles. Posting on the social media platform X, Zelenskyy stated that the decision to deploy 30,000 to 50,000 North Koreans to Russian territory has been finalized. This figure exceeds his earlier estimate of approximately 30,000 troops made in July. His claim has intensified international discussion regarding the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Zelenskyy mentioned that Ukraine had found North Korean missiles within its territory, though he did not specify their exact locations. The Ukrainian President asserts that North Korea is continuously gaining experience from modern warfare. According to him, through cooperation with Russia, North Korea can strengthen its military technology, equipment, and combat capabilities. He also appealed to South Korea to increase cooperation with Ukraine in the realm of air defense systems. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine seeks cooperation with South Korea in areas where it faces shortages, specifically emphasizing the need for air defense systems. Additionally, he hinted at the potential for cooperation between the two nations regarding drone deals and other military sectors. Military ties between Russia and North Korea have strengthened significantly over the past few years. In June 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea, during which both nations signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty. The agreement stipulates that if either country faces an external attack, the other will provide assistance. North Korea has characterized its military aid to Russia as cooperation under this strategic partnership.