Ukraine Targets North Korean Troops in Russia

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko has defended North Korea's recent missile tests as legitimate defensive actions against U.S. provocations, coinciding with North Korea's launch of multiple short-range ballistic missiles and a new intercontinental ballistic missile. Meanwhile, Pentagon officials have confirmed that approximately 10,000 North Korean troops are currently stationed in Russia's Kursk region, where they are receiving military training and could become legitimate targets for Ukraine if they engage in combat operations. Ukrainian forces have already reported engaging North Korean troops for the first time, further escalating concerns about North Korea's involvement in the ongoing conflict. The increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is exemplified by a mutual defense treaty signed in June, solidifying their partnership amid tensions with the U.S. and its allies. North Korea's foreign minister has emphasized their commitment to support Russia until a decisive victory is achieved in Ukraine. This situation raises significant geopolitical implications as the war continues to draw in various international actors.