Russian, North Korean troops face heavy losses in Kursk: Zelensky

Zelensky reports significant losses of Russian and North Korean forces in Kursk region clashes.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reported substantial losses among Russian and North Korean forces during recent battles in the southern Kursk region of Russia.

"Yesterday and today, near the village of Makhnovka in the Kursk region, the Russian army lost up to a battalion of North Korean infantry soldiers and Russian paratroops,"

Zelensky stated in his Jan. 4 evening address, citing Ukraine's top military commander.

He emphasized the significance of the losses. While no additional details were provided, a battalion typically comprises several hundred troops.

In late 2024, Zelensky urged China to use its influence over North Korea to deter the deployment of North Korean troops to the front line.

He stated that neighboring countries, particularly China, should work to prevent North Korea from engaging in battles in Europe, aligning with China's prior statements advocating for non-escalation of the conflict.

Russia has reportedly stationed approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region to bolster its efforts against Ukrainian forces.

The first confirmed engagements between Ukrainian and North Korean troops occurred on Nov. 5.k

Ukrainian forces initiated their unexpected incursion into Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, aiming to hold territory in the region as leverage in potential future negotiations with Russia.

Fighting has persisted in the region since the incursion began.