December 27th 2024.
According to Ukraine's military intelligence, North Korean troops have been facing significant challenges in the ongoing conflict in Russia's Kursk region. The intelligence agency, known as GUR, revealed that Ukrainian attacks near Novoivanovka have resulted in heavy casualties for the North Korean units stationed there. Additionally, the North Korean soldiers have been struggling with logistical difficulties, including shortages of supplies and even drinking water.
Recent reports suggest that the casualties among North Korean troops are even higher than previously estimated. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that 3000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the fighting in Kursk. This is the first significant estimate released by Ukraine, several weeks after initially announcing that North Korea had sent 10,000 to 12,000 troops to assist Russia in the ongoing war.
These revelations come amid the Biden administration's efforts to provide as much military aid as possible to Ukraine before President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January. In August, Ukrainian forces launched a successful offensive into the Kursk region, dealing a significant blow to Russia's reputation and forcing them to redirect troops from eastern Ukraine. While the Russian army has managed to regain some territory, they have been unable to fully dislodge the Ukrainian forces.
In retaliation, Russia has launched a series of attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, including power facilities, using cruise missiles and drones. On Christmas morning, Ukraine's air force reported that they intercepted 59 missiles and 54 drones, while also jamming 52 other drones. However, on Thursday, Russia launched 31 exploding drones, with only 20 being shot down and 11 failing to reach their target due to jamming. One of the drones hit a central market in Nikopol, injuring eight people.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has also threatened to use their new Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missiles against Ukraine, with plans to deploy them in their ally Belarus. In response, Ukraine has launched its own drone strikes, including one on a propellant plant in Russia's southern Rostov region. According to Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communications, this is part of a larger effort to weaken Russia's ability to carry out terrorist attacks against Ukrainian civilians.
As tensions continue to escalate between the two countries, it is clear that both sides are willing to use their most powerful weapons if necessary. The situation remains volatile, and both sides are on high alert as they prepare for any further attacks. The 9NEWS app is available for download to keep you updated on all the latest developments in this ongoing conflict.
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