**North Korean Troops Killed in Ukraine Conflict**
The US says North Korean soldiers have been killed fighting Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region. This is the first reported casualty since October, when it was announced that around 10,000 North Koreans would be sent to support Russia’s war effort.
**Claims Unverified**
The BBC has not checked these claims independently. However, Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, the GUR, says at least 30 North Korean soldiers were killed or wounded in fighting over the weekend.
**North Korean Troops’ Role**
It is believed that the North Koreans had been trained and used in support roles before being sent to the front line. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian forces began using a “significant number” of North Koreans in assaults on Kursk last week.
**US Comments**
Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder said the US believes North Korean soldiers had engaged in combat and suffered casualties alongside Russian forces. He did not give exact numbers but stated that this happened about a week ago.
**Russian Invasion**
Russia has been fighting Ukraine since February 2022. Recently, Russian forces have been advancing in eastern parts of Ukraine. The GUR said the North Korean casualties occurred on Saturday and Sunday in the villages of Plekhovo, Vorobzha, and Martynovka.
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