**North Korean Troops Engage in Combat with Russian Forces**
For the first time, North Korean soldiers have fought alongside Russian troops in Ukraine. The Pentagon has confirmed that North Korean forces took part in combat operations in the Kursk Oblast region.
According to Major General Patrick Ryder, a spokesperson for the Pentagon, North Korean soldiers were involved in fighting on December 14-15. They suffered casualties during assault operations near several villages. However, exact numbers are not available.
Ukraine’s military intelligence reported that at least 30 North Korean soldiers were killed or wounded during these attacks. The same report claims that a “friendly-fire” incident resulted in eight Russian soldiers being killed by their own allies on December 14.
**Russian Forces Also Suffer Heavy Losses**
North Korea has been sending reinforcements to replace the losses of their troops. Ukrainian air defenses have also shot down many Russian drones, disrupting Russia’s plans. The recent events mark a deeper military collaboration between Pyongyang and Moscow.
The conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate with both sides suffering heavy losses. This includes 1,070 casualties suffered by Russian forces just over the past day.