Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on Monday that Russia has deployed nearly 50,000 troops to Kursk, a southern Russian region where Kyiv initiated a surprise counteroffensive in the summer. Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces are successfully holding back the sizable enemy group in Kursk, as reported after a briefing from General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
The incursion into Russia’s Kursk region by Kyiv in August caught Moscow off guard, with Ukraine advancing swiftly into Russian territory and maintaining control over hundreds of square miles. Despite some settlements being reclaimed by Russia, the frontline has seen minimal changes in recent months.
A US official disclosed that Russia has amassed a significant force, including North Korean troops, with plans for an assault on Ukrainian positions in Kursk expected in the near future. While the Kremlin has not commented on the presence of North Korean troops, Russian state media reported President Putin ratifying a mutual defense treaty with North Korea.
North Korean troops have been actively involved in combat operations in Kursk and neighboring regions, with clashes resulting in casualties, according to Ukrainian sources. The situation in Ukraine remains challenging, with Russia conducting frequent drone strikes on Ukrainian cities and advancing along the extensive frontline.
Recent exchanges of drone strikes between Russia and Ukraine have escalated tensions, with both sides launching record numbers of drones. Additionally, Ukraine is monitoring the potential impact of Donald Trump’s recent US election victory, as the former president has expressed intentions to swiftly resolve the conflict.
