Russia fears China’s harsh reaction, so it is cautious about involving DPRK military in war, - Zelenskyy
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Russia is being cautious about involving North Korean troops in the war against Ukraine because it fears a "tough reaction" from China.
The head of state said this at a meeting with journalists, Censor.NET reports citing Interfax-Ukraine.
"As for the DPRK. The Russian Federation is being so careful with this topic, I think, so that China does not react harshly. Moreover, the EU and the United States are also very cautious about this topic. Pay attention. It is very restrained. But we are sounding the alarm because we know that these are risks for us," Zelenskyy said.
At the same time, he noted that South Korea "emphasized very directly" that the DPRK was helping the Russians with shells, weapons, and military personnel.
"I think I saw an open signal from them," the president added.
He also explained the support for Russia's policy by the DPRK's poverty.
"I think it's because of money (the DPRK supports Russia's policy - ed.). I think North Korea is very poor. They will send their people to the front," Zelenskyy added.
He noted that Ukraine has recorded officers and technical personnel from the DPRK in the temporarily occupied territories.
"I think they (the DPRK - ed.) sent officers because their officers need to understand what is happening first, and then send a contingent. Because how to manage them, how to command them?" - the president said, adding that it was a language barrier.
