North Korean Soldiers Return from Russia’s War with Ukraine

Kim Jong‑un greets troops and posthumously honors the fallen

Pyongyang, 13 December 2025 – A contingent of North Korean soldiers who had been deployed to Russia to fight alongside Russian forces in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine arrived back on home soil yesterday. The soldiers were met at the capital’s main military parade ground by Supreme Leader Kim Jong‑un, who personally embraced each returning serviceman.

The ceremony turned somber as the leader announced that the nation’s highest decoration, the Order of the National Hero, would be awarded posthumously to nine soldiers who lost their lives on the Ukrainian front. Their families were presented with the medals in a private ceremony that followed the public reception.

State media reported that the troops had completed a “mission of solidarity” with Russia, emphasizing North Korea’s “unwavering support for our strategic partner.” Officials said the soldiers returned “with honor and distinction,” and that they would be given additional training before being reassigned to other duties.

International observers have noted that the deployment underscores the deepening military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, a relationship that has intensified since the war began in 2022. Analysts suggest that the return of the soldiers may signal a shift in North Korea’s foreign‑policy calculations as it seeks to balance its ties with Russia against growing diplomatic pressure.

Human‑rights groups, however, condemned the involvement of North Korean troops in the Ukrainian conflict, calling for accountability for any violations of international law. The United Nations has yet to comment on the latest development.