Putin Orders Fourth 2026 Army Expansion as Zelenskyy Cites 8,000 North Korean Troops in Russia

Key points

• Putin’s decree raises active-duty military personnel to 1,550,500, the fourth increase in 2026.
• Zelenskyy claims over 8,000 North Korean troops are in Russia, with 10,000 more being trained for deployment.
• Russia is reportedly helping North Korea establish production of Shahed-type attack drones.
• The Kremlin did not explain the reason for the expansion, but analysts link it to heavy losses.
• Diplomatic talks for a peace deal have stalled as the U.S. focuses on its war with Iran.

Background

This expansion follows previous increases in March, June, and July 2026. In August 2026, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Putin described their relationship as a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' after Pyongyang provided military support. Earlier in 2026, Ukraine’s intelligence estimated around 8,500 North Korean troops in Russia, including drone operators. The current mobilization claims come after Russia’s State Duma election in late September 2026, where United Russia won a record number of seats.

How outlets are covering it

CNBC and The Guardian emphasize the scale of the expansion and Zelenskyy’s claims about North Korean troop deployments. The Moscow Times notes that some military experts doubt a new mass mobilization order due to logistical hurdles and the ongoing 'partial' mobilization. Ukrainian Pravda highlights the decree’s publication on Russia’s official legal database and notes Putin’s recent comments on Baltic states. All sources agree on the numerical increase but differ on the interpretation of whether this constitutes a new mobilization wave or a routine staffing adjustment.

Why it matters

The expansion signals Russia’s intent to sustain its war effort into winter despite heavy casualties. Zelenskyy’s warnings about North Korean troop deployments highlight the deepening military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, which could alter the balance of power in the conflict. The stalled diplomatic talks and U.S. focus on Iran suggest that a peace deal is unlikely in the near term, potentially prolonging the war.

What to watch

Analysts expect Russia to implement further mobilization measures after the State Duma election. Zelenskyy has warned that the coming winter will be painful for Russia if a truce is not agreed. Diplomatic talks may resume if the U.S. shifts its focus back to Ukraine. North Korea may deploy additional troops to Russia, potentially changing the dynamics of the war.