**Russia Faces International Backlash Over North Korean Labor Deal**
In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, Russia has agreed to allow nearly 15,000 labor migrants from North Korea to work in the country. This decision comes as Moscow struggles with a severe labor shortage, which experts predict could reach 2.4 million people by 2030.
The agreement marks an apparent violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions passed in response to North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests. The move has raised concerns among international leaders and diplomats, who view it as a significant escalation of economic and military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
**Security Concerns**
Russia’s decision to allow North Korean laborers into the country has sparked fears about potential security risks. Many North Koreans have been sent to work in Russia on student visas, which has raised suspicions about their true intentions. In 2024, nearly 8,000 North Korean nationals crossed the Russian border, allegedly to study.
The influx of North Korean workers has also raised concerns about labor exploitation. According to reports, these workers are willing to work long hours for low wages and do not complain about working conditions. This has sparked worries that they may be vulnerable to human trafficking or other forms of exploitation.
**International Reactions**
The decision has been met with condemnation from international leaders, who view it as a serious breach of United Nations resolutions. The Ukrainian Embassy in the US has urged Slovak officials to “more carefully study, rewatch, and analyze” President Zelensky’s statements after Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico condemned him for warning foreign delegations not to attend Russia’s Victory Day parade.
**North Korean Military Support**
In addition to sending labor migrants to Russia, North Korea has also been providing military support to its ally. In 2024, 12,000 North Korean troops arrived in Russia to participate in the war against Ukraine, and another 3,000 arrived in 2025. Around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed while fighting alongside Russian forces.
**Implications**
The implications of this deal are far-reaching and could have significant consequences for regional security. By allowing North Korean laborers into the country, Russia is deepening its ties with a regime that has been widely condemned for human rights abuses and military aggression.
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, this move has sparked concerns about potential further escalation of hostilities in the region. The international community will be watching closely as this situation develops and waiting for Russia’s response.
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