Kyiv: Over 7,000 North Korean troops have been deployed near the border with Ukraine, according to Kyiv's defense intelligence agency. These soldiers, equipped with AK-12 rifles, mortar rounds, and other assault weapons, appear to be positioned for potential involvement in the ongoing conflict. According to Yonhap News Agency, the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) reported that more than 7,000 North Korean soldiers were relocated from Russia's coastal region to areas near Ukraine last week. This movement was facilitated by at least 28 military transport aircraft of the Russian Aerospace Forces, as stated on the DIU's website. The DIU disclosed that Moscow has armed these North Korean soldiers with an array of Russian firearms, including 60-millimeter mortars, AK-12 rifles, machine guns, sniper rifles, anti-tank guided missiles, and anti-tank grenade launchers. Additionally, night vision equipment has been provided to them. The DIU further noted that the North Korean troops are currently undergoing trai ning at five different sites in Russia's Far East. This training is seen as preparation for their potential support of Russia's military operations in Ukraine. South Korea and Western nations have expressed concerns over the implications of North Korean troops entering combat in Ukraine, viewing it as a significant security threat to Europe and the Indo-Pacific region.