Ukraine killed North Korean soldiers aiding Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported on December 23 that North Korean casualties in the Kursk region exceeded 3,000, according to preliminary data. South Korea’s intelligence estimates place the toll at 1,100, with North Korea preparing to send reinforcements.
In August, North Korea deployed 11,000 troops to bolster Russian forces in the Kursk region during Ukraine’s counteroffensive. However, their inexperience with drones has proven deadly. Ukrainian drone footage captured moments where panicked North Korean troops mistakenly shot one another while attempting to neutralize aerial threats.
The Ukrainian Special Operations Forces revealed that their 8th regiment killed 77 North Koreans and wounded 40 over three days. Drone footage released by Ukraine showed precise strikes on enemy soldiers, highlighting the impact of unmanned systems in combat.
Russia, facing losses, has increased its efforts to reclaim territory. On December 24, Ukrainian Sergeant Oleg Chaus reported that Russian units conducted coordinated attacks in Kursk using advanced weaponry, including grenade launchers and night-vision devices. As Ukraine killed North Korean soldiers, it marked a shift in Russian tactics.
Russia ramped up its offensive in Donetsk, launching 248 attacks on December 24 and 200 more on Christmas Day. Russian forces captured Kurakhove, making it the latest strategic location to fall. Despite these gains, Ukraine continues striking critical Russian infrastructure, such as oil refineries and drone assembly sites.
Ukraine’s innovative drone warfare is reshaping combat dynamics. The country has introduced high-altitude surveillance drones and domestically-produced systems to maintain the upper hand. President Zelenskyy vowed to continue targeting Russia’s military infrastructure with precision strikes, emphasizing Ukraine’s resolve to protect its sovereignty.
