Ukrainian intelligence reports indicate a friendly fire incident in the Kursk Oblast where North Korean troops, supporting Russian forces, mistakenly targeted and eliminated eight soldiers from the Chechen Akhmat special forces unit. This incident highlights the communication challenges between the two allied forces, with language barriers reportedly contributing to the accidental attack. The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence (DIU) stated that approximately 11,000 North Korean personnel are currently stationed in Russia, and they are being deployed in assault operations alongside Russian marines and airborne troops. The DIU also claims that North Korean forces are experiencing significant losses due to Ukrainian counter-offensives, particularly from targeted drone strikes. This incident comes amidst ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine's power grid, with a recent large-scale assault involving missiles and drones targeting western Ukraine, further exacerbating the already dire energy situation.

Defensive fortifications near Sumy, Ukraine.

Meeting between Russian and North Korean defense ministers.

North Korean soldiers welcoming Russia's Foreign Minister.