Ukrainian and North Korean soldiers have reportedly clashed for the first time, escalating tensions in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The encounter, which was first disclosed by Ukraine's Defence Minister Rustem Umerov in an interview with South Korea’s KBS, involved a "small group" of North Korean troops stationed near Ukraine’s frontlines. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the West's muted response, warning that North Korea's involvement "opens a new chapter of instability in the world."

While Seoul acknowledged an "incident" involving North Korean soldiers, it expressed doubts over direct combat engagement. According to Umerov, the North Korean troops—estimated at around 11,000 in Russia's Kursk region—are mainly undergoing training and operating under Russian command in Russian uniforms. He anticipates that five units, each with approximately 3,000 soldiers, may soon join combat efforts.

This development follows intelligence reports from South Korea, the U.S., and NATO indicating an increased North Korean presence in Russia. However, neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has responded to these allegations.

President Zelensky, in a daily address, called for international action, urging countries to "make this Russian step toward expanding the war… a failure." Reports of North Korean involvement have raised concerns in South Korea, which recently summoned Russia's ambassador to demand the withdrawal of North Korean troops. Seoul also hinted at potential arms support for Ukraine in response.

Meanwhile, Russia is moving closer to formalizing its alliance with North Korea, with lawmakers set to ratify a mutual defense treaty. Proposed during President Putin's visit to Pyongyang in June, the treaty would bind Russia and North Korea to assist each other in case of "aggression."

This developing alliance, along with the direct clash involving North Korean troops, adds a new layer of complexity and international concern over the escalating conflict.