North Korean Troops Withdrawn From Kursk Frontline After Heavy Losses

Ukraine and U.S. officials report that North Korean soldiers, deployed to support Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, have been pulled back following significant casualties.

• Ukraine claims North Korean forces, sent to bolster Russian troops in the Kursk region, have been withdrawn after suffering heavy losses in combat.
• Approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers were reportedly deployed to Russia in November, but their numbers have since halved, according to Ukrainian military officials.
• The withdrawal follows Ukraine's cross-border offensive into Russia's Kursk region, marking a significant setback for Moscow in the nearly three-year conflict.
• U.S. officials suggest the withdrawal may be temporary, with North Korean troops potentially undergoing additional training before redeployment.
• Analysts believe North Korea's involvement is tied to leader Kim Jong-un's expectations of Russian support for missile programs and diplomatic backing at the UN.

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