Zelensky: "North Korean Troops Deployed to Russia Could Number 100,000"

Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine. Yonhap News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on the 19th (local time) that the number of North Korean troops deployed in Russia could increase to 100,000.

President Zelensky made this statement during a virtual speech at a special session of the European Parliament held in Brussels, Belgium, according to major foreign media reports.

President Zelensky said, "Russian President Vladimir Putin will not stop this war on his own, adding, 'He is focused on victory, and the situation worsens as time passes.'

He continued, "All Russian attacks and threats must be met with firm sanctions," emphasizing in particular the need to weaken the regime's ability to finance the war through oil sales, which is the "lifeline" of the regime.

President Zelensky also spoke directly to the Ukrainian parliament, stating that the year "2025 will be decisive" in determining who will win this war.

As Russia's invasion of Ukraine marked 1,000 days on this day, it was a reaffirmation of the will to fight to the death.

President Zelensky especially said, "We will not trade sovereignty or give up rights to our territory."

European allies also repeatedly confirmed their support for Ukraine.

Mark Rutte, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), said on his way to attend the European Union (EU) Defense Ministers meeting held in Brussels, Belgium, that "more support must be provided so that Ukraine can win."

French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "We will unwaveringly support Ukraine for the victory of freedom, peace, and justice."

Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stressed that Europe must also approve the use of long-range missiles for Ukraine and that Europe should continue military support for Ukraine without waiting for the decision of then-President-elect Donald Trump of the United States.