North Korea is gaining valuable experience in long-distance troop deployments and military logistics through its involvement in Russia's war against Ukraine, the commander of US Forces Korea said on Tuesday.
Gen. Xavier Brunson told a discussion hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington that Pyongyang's support for Moscow had strengthened its operational capabilities, according to Yonhap News Agency.
"They've learned how to go from North Korea to find themselves in Russia to move men, weapons and equipment there," Brunson said.
He said North Korean forces had gained experience in establishing supply chains, moving troops and equipment over long distances and mobilising military resources, extending their capabilities beyond battlefield tactics.
Brunson warned that Pyongyang's ability to incorporate wartime experience into its military operations could complicate deterrence efforts by Washington and Seoul.
He also said Russia had provided North Korea with military equipment, including electronic warfare jammers, in exchange for its support.
Turning to the proposed transfer of wartime operational control from the US to South Korea, Brunson reiterated his support for a conditions-based transition, cautioning against proceeding before critical military requirements were met.
He also proposed expanding cooperation with South Korea's defence industry to establish regional maintenance and repair capabilities for US military equipment.
In July, South Korea was monitoring reports of additional North Korean troop deployments to Russia, while Japan condemned growing military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang.
The two countries strengthened their military partnership after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence treaty in June 2024.
