North Korea Draws Strategic Benefits as it Sends Troops to Aid Russia's War in Ukraine

Pyongyang has been seen sending thousands of soldiers to fight alongside Russian forces in the ongoing war in Ukraine, sparking concerns about the motivations behind this unlikely alliance. While Moscow stands to gain significantly from the influx of North Korean troops, analysts say that Kim Jong Un's regime may also be reaping strategic benefits.

Western and South Korean officials have long suspected that North Korea is being compensated for its involvement, possibly through Russian resources, food, and even cash. However, the recent strengthening of relations between Pyongyang and Moscow suggests that there is more to this alliance than just a simple quid pro quo.

Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center in Berlin, points out that North Korea may be gaining valuable combat experience with drones and real-world military skills in a 21st-century war. However, he warns that the true motivations behind Kim Jong Un's decision to send troops to Ukraine are centered around strategic capabilities.

"North Korea is trying to get as many benefits as it can from this relationship," says Edward Howell, an expert on North Korea at the Chatham House think tank. "This new alliance has granted Pyongyang full, unwavering support of Russia at the UN Security Council, which is extremely beneficial for their nuclear ambitions."

With Russian backing, North Korea now enjoys greater impunity when conducting nuclear tests or provoking its rival South Korea. The veto power wielded by Russia at the UN Security Council is also a significant advantage, allowing Pyongyang to operate with relative impunity.

Moreover, Ukraine's war has provided a testing ground for North Korean troops, who are learning how to adapt to a battlefield filled with drones and other advanced military technologies. This experience could potentially enhance their capabilities in the future.

"While there may be some benefits from combat experience," says Gabuev, "the key question remains whether or not Russia is sharing valuable knowledge in space technologies – an area where North Korea has its own nuclear program."

As tensions between North Korea and South Korea continue to escalate, analysts say that this unexpected alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang is a strategic pivot for the Kim regime.