A striking move has unfolded amidst ongoing conflict as Russian troops raised a North Korean flag in the Donetsk People’s Republic.

This act coincides with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s remarks about North Korean fighters allegedly joining the Russian military operation.

The flag was hoisted on a waste heap near Tsukurino, a settlement recently taken by Russian forces.

Images captured show the North Korean flag fluttering alongside the Russian Federation’s national flag, a sight that was shared on the War Correspondents of the Russian Spring Telegram channel.

The accompanying caption claimed that the actions of their fighters had incited chaos among the enemy ranks.

A Twist of Provocation

War correspondent Alexander Kots remarked that this display served as a form of “trolling” aimed at Ukrainian soldiers.

He characterized it as “thick trolling” from the Russian troops stationed in the Pokrovsky direction, noting how swiftly Ukrainian channels reacted to the sight of the two flags atop the waste heap.

Kots questioned the lack of action from international bodies, asking, “Where is the UN looking?!”

Rising Tensions and Global Concerns

Days before this incident, President Zelensky stated that Ukraine was battling not just Russia, but also Iran and North Korea.

He made this declaration while unveiling his “victory plan,” underscoring the multifaceted nature of the conflict.

In response, South Korean President Yun Sok-yol called for an emergency meeting to address concerns over the potential redeployment of North Korean troops to Russia, which could precede their deployment to Ukraine.

This development has raised alarms in Seoul, labeling it a “serious security threat.”

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that the alliance currently lacks evidence to support claims of North Korean military presence in Ukraine.

Similarly, Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin was unable to confirm reports of DPRK troops being active in the operational area.