North Korean Soldiers Deployed to Support Russia in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the first casualties among North Korean soldiers stationed in Russia's Kursk region, where approximately 12,000 troops have been deployed to support Moscow's war against Ukraine. Zelensky expressed concerns that these North Korean soldiers would be used as 'cannon fodder' by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Reports indicate that North Korea has supplied military equipment to Russia, including over 100 pieces of artillery and munitions, bolstering Russia's capabilities amid heavy losses in Ukraine. The U.S. has confirmed that North Korean troops are actively engaged in combat operations after receiving training in various military tactics. While the exact number of North Korean casualties is yet to be verified, both U.S. and Ukrainian sources have noted the significant involvement of North Korean forces in the ongoing conflict. Zelensky has called for stronger support from NATO and indicated that North Korea is poised to receive further assistance from Russia in its arms development programs.