The Ukraine-Russia conflict has grown beyond its European borders as East-Asian nations take sides in this complex power-play: Around 10k North Korean soldiers showed up on Russian soil last month which changed everything
In the heart of this geo-political chess game China stands firm with Moscow - providing critical support (like 90% of micro-electronics and 70% of machine tools) that keeps Russian military running. Xi Jinping sees this as a chance to push-back against western influence; his country sends about $300-million worth of dual-use stuff to Russia monthly
North Korea didnt waste time picking its team: Last week Kim Jong Un signed a military deal with Russia and sent troops to fight near Kursk - a move that shocked many war-watchers
On the flip side Kishida Fumio and Japan stepped-up big time sending non-combat gear to Ukraine including:
* Vehicles
* Flak jackets
* Recon drones
South Korea under Yoon Suk-yeol plays it smart - helping indirectly by shipping artillery shells to US and selling defense stuff to Poland (which helps Ukraine). After seeing NK troops in Russia Seoul might start sending weapons straight to Kyiv
The whole thing looks like classic proxy-war setup where bigger players fight through others to get what they want - just like old Cold War days in places like Congo and Angola. Beijing and Pyongyang want Russia to win cause they dont like current world setup; Tokyo and Seoul back Ukraine hoping to stop anyone from changing borders by force
This new dynamic shows how Asian powers now fight for their interests far from home turf: Its not just about Ukraine anymore - its about who gets to write rules for tomorrows world