**Russia Plans to Retake Kursk Oblast**
The Ukrainian military will stay in the Kursk Oblast as long as it is “militarily possible”. This was stated by a source from the General Staff. The reason for this decision is that Russia plans to create a “buffer zone” near the border with Sumy Oblast.
**Ukraine Lost Control of Territory**
Russia has managed to take back around half of the territory in Kursk Oblast that Ukrainian troops had captured on August 6. This was after Kyiv launched a surprise attack into the region.
**North Korean Troops Involved**
There have been reports that Russia has deployed thousands of North Korean soldiers in the embattled area, with some already clashing with Ukraine. As of November 4, around 11,000 North Korean troops were stationed in Kursk Oblast.
**Russian Casualties High**
According to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, Russian forces have suffered significant losses during the three months of fighting. The numbers are: 7,905 soldiers killed, 12,220 injured, and 717 captured.