### Zelenskyy Warns of Heightened Threat as North Korean Troops Enter Russian Territory

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a stark warning about the recent deployment of North Korean troops to Russia, indicating that this development not only endangers Ukraine but also raises serious concerns about the stability and security of Western-allied nations in Asia.

"North Korea's actions aren't random," Zelenskyy stated in an interview with South Korea's public broadcaster KBS. "They have strategic goals," he added, emphasizing that the motives behind these actions are deliberate and aimed at securing Russia's support in return. Zelenskyy also echoed these concerns on his social media account.

The urgency of Zelenskyy’s message was underscored by an announcement from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. During a joint press conference with their South Korean counterparts, they confirmed that around 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to Russia for training purposes. Notably, 80 percent of these troops are already stationed in Kursk and are expected to commence combat operations against Ukrainian forces in the coming days.

Zelenskyy described the situation as a "war of two countries against one," urging South Korea to take a more proactive stance against Russia's prolonged invasion of Ukraine. He stressed that these foreign troops are preparing to combat Ukrainian soldiers, either in Kursk or on occupied Ukrainian land, highlighting the severe implications of this military alliance.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy revealed that South Korea has agreed to send a team of specialists to Ukraine to collaborate on enhancing defensive capabilities, particularly air defense. He pointed out the close proximity of North Korea to Seoul, which is within the range of modern artillery, stressing the critical importance of preparation against potential artillery strikes.

The Ukrainian president called for the formation of an "Asian Security Alliance" and encouraged nations like South Korea and Japan to spearhead this initiative. He suggested that engaging China could also be crucial in countering North Korea's aggressive actions, while expressing surprise at China's silence on the issue.

Zelenskyy underscored the ramifications of the alliance between Russia and North Korea not just for Ukraine, but also for Eastern and Western allies. He warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin might be testing the responses of the West, NATO, and South Korea to the deployment of North Korean forces. A weak reaction, he suggested, could lead to an increase in foreign soldiers on Ukrainian soil.

In related news, the U.S. has announced a $425 million defensive aid package for Ukraine, aimed at bolstering the country's security and defense capabilities. This package includes air defense interceptors, munitions for rocket systems and artillery, armored vehicles, and anti-tank weapons. However, it notably excludes Tomahawk intermediate-range missiles, which Zelenskyy had requested but was reportedly denied.