**Russia May Transfer Jets to North Korea**
The commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel Paparo, has said that Russia may have transferred MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets to North Korea in exchange for North Korean soldiers. This was reported by Aviation Week Network on December 8.
North Korea’s air force is currently made up of aging Soviet-era aircraft. The transfer of MiG-29s and Su-27s would significantly upgrade their capabilities. Defense Express has reported that North Korea already possesses 18 MiG-29s, 34 Su-25s, and a variety of older MiG models.
**North Korea’s Military Ties with Russia**
The strengthening military ties between North Korea and Russia have raised international concerns. In November, Kim Jong Un reaffirmed North Korea’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. This cooperation has also included the deployment of North Korean soldiers to Russian territory.
According to Ukrainian reports, between 10,000 and 12,000 North Korean troops are stationed at observation posts and checkpoints in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.
**Poland Takes Presidency of European Union**
The Polish Prime Minister announced that Poland will play an active role in talks during its presidency of the Council of the European Union. Military transport aircraft continue to transport personnel and equipment to Russian airfields.
**Germany and Ukraine**
Friedrich Merz, a candidate for German Chancellor, has said he would coordinate closely with the US and European partners on delivering Taurus missiles to Ukraine.
A Russian missile attack in the town of Zlatopil in Kharkiv Oblast injured at least 11 people. Russian security services detained a citizen for allegedly preparing a sabotage plot against railways.
**Ukraine Updates**
Russia’s security services have detained a Russian-German citizen for allegedly preparing a sabotage plot against railways.
Russian occupation authorities in Donetsk Oblast announced evacuations from parts of the city amid reports of explosions.
A survey by New Europe Center showed that 44.6% of Ukrainians trust US President-elect Donald Trump, compared to 54.5% who trust incumbent President Joe Biden.