Possible North Korea troops withdrawal in Kursk highlights Russian vulnerabilities in drone combat

The Center for Countering Disinformation at Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council has analyzed recent reports of potential troop withdrawals by North Korea (DPRK) from the contact line in Russia's Kursk region.

According to experts, Russian and DPRK forces face significant challenges in countering advanced drone and artillery systems, which have demonstrated increasing effectiveness during the war. "Neither the Russian army nor its allies have managed to adapt to modern battlefield conditions," analysts state.

The report suggests that a possible withdrawal of DPRK units, sent to support Russian forces, might stem from heavy losses sustained under Ukrainian artillery and UAV strikes. "This raises questions about the long-term sustainability of their deployment in the region," the Center for Countering Disinformation emphasized.

According to the head of the Center, Andriy Kovalenko, the capture of DPRK soldiers and the fact that their anonymity is not ensured is a problem for North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

“In addition, there is a clear record of the bodies of the dead Koreans. The Russians were supposed to ensure maximum anonymity of their participation in the battles according to the initial agreements, but they did not do so,” Kovalenko added.

At the same time, the withdrawal could also signal strategic recalibrations by Russia, seeking to conserve resources and adapt its military strategy.