Putin plans covert troop mobilization, deploys North Korean forces

The Kyiv Post reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin is planning a covert mobilization of troops, alongside deploying North Korean forces to support Russian operations. This development is part of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, where Russia seeks to reinforce its military capabilities without publicizing a mass draft. The involvement of North Korean troops marks an escalation in military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, transitioning from material support to deploying personnel for combat roles. Such actions could intensify the conflict, particularly in regions like Sloviansk, where Russian military ambitions are apparent. Key Takeaways The covert mobilization and North Korean troop deployments appear consistent with a heightened probability of Russian forces entering Sloviansk by the end of 2026. The news reflects a potential increase in the likelihood of Russia capturing Sloviansk, with pricing suggesting a more aggressive military stance from Russia. The involvement of North Korean troops in Russia may indicate a broader geopolitical alignment, though the direct impact on North-South Korea relations remains speculative. What to Watch Observers should moni...