The European Commission strongly reacted to the involvement of military units from North Korea in the conflict on Ukrainian territory, characterizing this event as a sign of Russia’s extreme desperation in its efforts to oppose international sanctions and isolation
In a brief statement on April 28, European Commission spokesperson Annita Hipper emphasized that such a move by Moscow indicates that the Russian Federation is not willing to compromise and is refusing to seek peace. According to the official, increased military cooperation between Russia and North Korea suggests that Moscow, from its perspective, is increasingly isolated internationally and vulnerable in the face of tightening EU sanctions, which are progressively complicating its military and economic standing. “When it comes to deepening military cooperation with North Korea, it sends a very clear signal: Russia has no intention of making compromises and is seeking all possible resources to support its illegal aggression against Ukraine,” Hipper stated. She highlighted that Moscow, in its utter desperation, has been forced to turn to so-called international actors who not only disrupt the global security balance but also seriously undermine stability worldwide. “This is a tangible manifestation of Russia’s despair, which, thanks to EU sanctions—diplomatic and economic—is becoming increasingly isolated,” she added. The spokesperson emphasized that the European Union remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine and intends to intensify pressure on Moscow by continuing work on a new, 17th package of sanctions and by supporting Ukrainian resistance at all levels. The background of the conflict has taken new turns in recent weeks, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un confirmed the sending of military units to Russia to participate in the war against Ukraine, citing signatures and provisions of a strategic partnership between the two countries. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin did not hide his gratitude and underscored that this decision aligns with long-term agreements between Moscow and Pyongyang. At the same time, Western media reports indicated that in Washington, there have begun unexpected but intensified efforts to restore diplomatic dialogue with North Korea, despite external criticism and accusations of unpredictability in Pyongyang's policies. US officials, close to the Trump administration, are reportedly preparing unofficial strategies for a potential realignment of relations with North Korea, causing additional tension amid the complex international situation surrounding the Ukrainian war and global security. This situation heightens global diplomatic anxiety regarding the further development of the conflict and possible scenarios of international responses. Experts note that the involvement of North Korean troops is a symptom of desperate attempts by the Kremlin to find new avenues to sustain the war, which has largely become a real challenge for Russia due to international isolation and economic sanctions. As Ukraine continues its defense and urges global solidarity, the European Union is strengthening its policies to counter aggression, investing resources in supporting Ukraine and pressing Russia with maximum pressure.