China, North Korea and Russia in one war?

The reported training of hundreds of Russian soldiers in China, including in drone use, electronic countermeasures and modern combat simulations, shows that Beijing’s role should not be seen only through trade, political cover or dual-use components. If Russian troops trained in China later serve in Ukraine, including in command roles, this becomes a practical military contribution to Russia’s war effort.

The North Korean case is even clearer. North Korean soldiers on Russia’s side, especially around Kursk, became one of the most visible examples of the internationalisation of the war. They were reportedly trained in Russia’s Far East, equipped with Russian uniforms and documents, and used to support Moscow with personnel, ammunition and weapons. For Pyongyang, this means combat experience, testing of its own systems and deeper military ties with Russia. For Moscow, it means help in covering manpower and material losses.

This creates a wider problem for Europe because Russia is building a wartime network that connects the European battlefield with Asia. China provides training and military knowledge in selected areas. North Korea provides soldiers, ammunition and political support. Russia gives both partners access to battlefield lessons, military cooperation and a stronger anti-Western platform.

The question is whether this marks the beginning of a new Russia-China-North Korea triangle? Xi Jinping’s visit to Pyongyang, his first in nearly seven years, showed that Beijing and North Korea are again giving political weight to their relationship. If this is combined with Russia’s dependence on North Korea and growing military links with China, then Europe (mainly Ukraine of course) is facing not only Russian aggression, but a broader alignment of states willing to support each other against the West.