- The UK Ministry of Defence reports that North Korean forces have suffered over 6,000 casualties in offensive operations against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region of Russia.
- These casualties represent more than half of the 11,000 North Korean troops initially deployed to the Kursk region.
- North Korea has been a staunch ally of Russia during its invasion of Ukraine.
- Russia's former defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, has been a key figure in coordinating North Korea's support, meeting with Kim Jong Un to affirm North Korea's backing of Russia's policies.
- Intelligence reports suggest North Korea has continued to supply weapons, potentially receiving economic and military assistance in return, raising concerns about technology transfers that could enhance North Korea's nuclear programme.
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