Overview

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the deaths of North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia in western Ukraine but did not disclose specific casualty numbers.
• Approximately 12,000 North Korean troops have reportedly been stationed in Russia's Kursk region, near the Ukrainian border, with some engaged in combat operations.
• North Korean forces are believed to be integrated into Russian military units and have received training in artillery, drones, and basic infantry tactics.
• Zelensky and other officials have characterized North Korean troops as being used as 'cannon fodder' by Moscow, raising questions about their effectiveness and interoperability with Russian forces.
• North Korea has strengthened its military alliance with Russia, providing munitions and missiles while reportedly receiving air-defense systems, economic aid, and weapons development assistance in return.