Ukrainian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-says-nothing-more-cruel-than-launching-air-strikes-on-civilians">Volodymyr Zelensky</a> has said forces operating in the Kursk region of Russia have captured two North Korean soldiers.
&ldquo;Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine,&rdquo; Zelensky said Saturday in a statement on X, which include several images of the injured soldiers.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-doubts-donald-trump-can-resolve-ukraine-russia-war-calls-greenland-canada-plans-wild-speculations-8605233">Russia doubts Trump can resolve Ukraine war swiftly; calls Greenland and Canada plans &lsquo;wild speculations&rsquo;</a>
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Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine. This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/5J0hqbarP6">pic.twitter.com/5J0hqbarP6</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1878046090018042169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
"This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North Korean military personnel usually execute their wounded to erase any evidence of North Korea&rsquo;s involvement in the war against Ukraine," he added.
The two wounded soldiers received necessary medical care and are in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in Kyiv, according to Zelensky. The president applauded Ukrainian paratroopers and soldiers from the Special Operation Forces for capturing the North Koreans.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-ramps-up-spratly-islands-upgrades-to-enhance-military-capacity-amid-tension-with-china-8610737">Philippines ramps up Spratly Islands upgrades to enhance military capacity amid tension with China</a>
<h2>'World needs to know the truth'</h2>
"As with all prisoners of war, these two North Korean soldiers are receiving the necessary medical assistance. I have instructed the Security Service of Ukraine to grant journalists access to these prisoners. The world needs to know the truth about what is happening," Zelensky added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zeelesnkyseeks-new-opportunities-in-trump-administration-after-us-announces-another-military-aid-package-worth-500-million-8605218">Zelensky seeks 'new opportunities' in Trump administration after Biden announces $500mn military aid</a>
North Korea deployed around 12,000 soldiers in Kursk Oblast, where Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border incursion in August 2024 to bring the war to Russia.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North Korean military personnel usually execute their wounded to erase any evidence of North Korea’s involvement in the war against Ukraine," Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said forces operating in the Kursk region of Russia have captured two North Korean soldiers. “Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine,” Zelensky said Saturday in a statement on X, which include several images of the injured soldiers. Also read: Russia doubts Trump can resolve Ukraine war swiftly; calls Greenland and Canada plans ‘wild speculations’ Our soldiers have captured North Korean military personnel in the Kursk region. Two soldiers, though wounded, survived and were transported to Kyiv, where they are now communicating with the Security Service of Ukraine. This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North… pic.twitter.com/5J0hqbarP6 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) January 11, 2025 "This was not an easy task: Russian forces and other North Korean military personnel usually execute their wounded to erase any evidence of North Korea’s involvement in the war against Ukraine," he added. The two wounded soldiers received necessary medical care and are in the custody of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in Kyiv, according to Zelensky. The president applauded Ukrainian paratroopers and soldiers from the Special Operation Forces for capturing the North Koreans. Also read: Philippines ramps up Spratly Islands upgrades to enhance military capacity amid tension with China 'World needs to know the truth' "As with all prisoners of war, these two North Korean soldiers are receiving the necessary medical assistance. I have instructed the Security Service of Ukraine to grant journalists access to these prisoners. The world needs to know the truth about what is happening," Zelensky added. Also read: Zelensky seeks 'new opportunities' in Trump administration after Biden announces $500mn military aid North Korea deployed around 12,000 soldiers in Kursk Oblast, where Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border incursion in August 2024 to bring the war to Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

'Evidence of involvement': Zelensky says Ukraine captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk region

North Korean troops deployed in Russia&rsquo;s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture.&nbsp;
Emphasising that the North Korean generals see their soldiers as "expendable", Kirby said that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the last week.&nbsp;
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated that almost 3,000 Pyongyang soldiers have been killed or injured so far.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldier-captured-by-ukraine-dies-from-injuries-confirms-south-koreas-spy-agency-8570790">North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency</a>
A &ldquo;human wave&rdquo; of North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the Ukraine war are being sent to their deaths in &ldquo;hopeless&rdquo; attacks by generals who saw them as "expendable", he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We now assess that North Korean forces are conducting massed dismounted assaults against Ukrainian positions in Kursk, and these human wave tactics that we&rsquo;re seeing haven&rsquo;t really been all that effective,&rdquo; the spokesperson added.&nbsp;
"We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that the soldiers are taking such actions likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in case they are captured.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sentences-singer-to-55-years-in-jail-for-criticising-ukraine-offensive-8571826" rel="dofollow">Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive&nbsp;</a>
Kirby continues that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile".&nbsp;
<h2>'Several North Korean soldiers dead'</h2>
Menawhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that several North Korean soldiers who were "seriously wounded" died from their injuries after being captured by Ukrainian forces.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
Zelensky has also accused Russia of sending North Korean troops to the battlefield with "minimal protection".&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-over-3000-north-koreans-killed-or-wounded-in-kursk-region-786276" rel="dofollow"> Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region</a>
&ldquo;They have a lot of losses. A lot. And we see that the Russian military and North Korean supervisors are not interested in the survival of these Koreans at all,&rdquo; he said.
On Friday, South Korea's spy agency claimed that one wounded North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, died from his injuries.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Kirby said that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile". 

North Korean troops deployed in Russia’s Kursk region, fighting Ukraine have been facing severe losses since the day they began to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine. US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the troops sent by North Korea, are killing themselves rather than risking capture. Emphasising that the North Korean generals see their soldiers as "expendable", Kirby said that more than 1,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded in the last week. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimated that almost 3,000 Pyongyang soldiers have been killed or injured so far. Also read: North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency A “human wave” of North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia's side in the Ukraine war are being sent to their deaths in “hopeless” attacks by generals who saw them as "expendable", he said. “We now assess that North Korean forces are conducting massed dismounted assaults against Ukrainian positions in Kursk, and these human wave tactics that we’re seeing haven’t really been all that effective,” the spokesperson added. "We also have reports of North Korean soldiers taking their own lives rather than surrendering to Ukrainian forces," he said, adding that the soldiers are taking such actions likely out of fear of reprisal against their families in North Korea in case they are captured. Also read: Russia sentences singer to 5.5 years in jail for criticising Ukraine offensive Kirby continues that these North Korean soldiers appear to be "highly indoctrinated", pushing attacks even when it is clear that those attacks are "futile". 'Several North Korean soldiers dead' Menawhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday said that several North Korean soldiers who were "seriously wounded" died from their injuries after being captured by Ukrainian forces. “Our soldiers managed to take them prisoner. But they were very seriously wounded and could not be resuscitated,” he said. Zelensky has also accused Russia of sending North Korean troops to the battlefield with "minimal protection". Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region “They have a lot of losses. A lot. And we see that the Russian military and North Korean supervisors are not interested in the survival of these Koreans at all,” he said. On Friday, South Korea's spy agency claimed that one wounded North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, died from his injuries. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

N Korean troops killing themselves rather than surrendering to Ukraine, claims US

An injured North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces died from injuries, South Korea's spy agency said in a statement on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;
Since North Korea deployed its troops to support Russia in its war with Ukraine, the soldier is believed to be the first Pyongyang prisoner of war captured by Kyiv.&nbsp;
South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries", state media Yonhap News Agency reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-soldier-fighting-for-russia-captured-by-ukrainian-forces-report-8569397">Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report</a>
Earlier in the day, South Korea's spy agency confirmed Ukrainian reports that an injured North Korean soldier had been captured by Kyiv forces.&nbsp;
"Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement.
Yonhap News Agency reported that a photograph of the soldier, looking gaunt and appearing to have been injured, has been making rounds on the Telegram messaging app.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madness-must-be-stopped-zelensky-claims-russian-troops-burning-faces-of-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-war-784772" rel="dofollow">'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war</a>
North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine, including in the border regions.&nbsp;
Around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed after their leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence pact, committing each other to come to aid if attacked.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-says-over-3000-north-koreans-killed-or-wounded-in-kursk-region-786276">Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region</a>
Earlier on Thursday, Ukraine&rsquo;s military intelligence agency, also known as the GUR, said that the North Korean troops were suffering heavy losses in the fighting in Kursk.&nbsp;
Moreover, this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region.&nbsp;
According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence services, many of the troops deployed to Russia are some of Pyongyang's best, who are drawn from the 11th Corps.&nbsp;
This unit is specifically trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos
(With inputs from agencies)

South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries".

An injured North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces died from injuries, South Korea's spy agency said in a statement on Friday (Dec 27). Since North Korea deployed its troops to support Russia in its war with Ukraine, the soldier is believed to be the first Pyongyang prisoner of war captured by Kyiv. South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that it had confirmed through an "allied intelligence agency" that the soldier had died from "serious injuries", state media Yonhap News Agency reported. Also read: Injured North Korean soldier fighting for Russia captured by Ukrainian forces: Report Earlier in the day, South Korea's spy agency confirmed Ukrainian reports that an injured North Korean soldier had been captured by Kyiv forces. "Through real-time information sharing with an allied country's intelligence agency, it has been confirmed that one injured North Korean soldier has been captured," South Korea's National Intelligence Service said in a statement. Yonhap News Agency reported that a photograph of the soldier, looking gaunt and appearing to have been injured, has been making rounds on the Telegram messaging app. Also read: 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to help Russian forces in its war with Ukraine, including in the border regions. Around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed after their leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defence pact, committing each other to come to aid if attacked. Also read: Ukraine's Zelensky says over 3,000 North Koreans killed or wounded in Kursk region Earlier on Thursday, Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, also known as the GUR, said that the North Korean troops were suffering heavy losses in the fighting in Kursk. Moreover, this week, Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region. According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence services, many of the troops deployed to Russia are some of Pyongyang's best, who are drawn from the 11th Corps. This unit is specifically trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

North Korean soldier captured by Ukraine dies from injuries, claims South Korea's spy agency

Moscow, Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. 
Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. 
"Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. 
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Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse.
Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people.
They tried to hide the presence of… <a href="https://t.co/KYyGF1rxP8">pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1868777841917059313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people".
The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. 
"Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. 
"This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. 
Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. 
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War
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Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."
Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. 



Moscow, Russia Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. "Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. They tried to hide the presence of… pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 16, 2024 × He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people". The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. "Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. "This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War × Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence.&nbsp;

Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope.&nbsp;

"Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X.&nbsp;

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Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. 
 
Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. 
 
They tried to hide the presence of… <a href="https://t.co/KYyGF1rxP8">pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1868777841917059313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people".

The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence.&nbsp;

"Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Also read:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>

Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin.&nbsp;

"This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War

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Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them."

Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday (Dec 17) claimed that Russian troops have burnt the faces of deceased North Korean soldiers to conceal their identity and hide their presence. Zelensky shared a 31-second video, showing a group of people burning what appears to be a corpse on a snow-covered slope. "Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse," Zelensky said in a post on X. Even after years of war, when we thought the Russians could not get any more cynical, we see something even worse. Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions, but also tries to conceal losses of these people. They tried to hide the presence of… pic.twitter.com/KYyGF1rxP8 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) December 16, 2024 × He further said that Russia not only sends the North Korean troops to storm Ukrainian positions but also "tries to conceal losses of these people". The Ukrainian president stressed that the Russians attempted to erase any video evidence of their presence. "Now, after first combats with our warriors, Russians are trying…to literally burn the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in battle," he said, adding, "This is a demonstration of disrespect, which is currently prevalent in Russia, a disrespect to everything human." Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region Zelensky said that there is not a single reason for North Koreans to fight and die for Putin. "This madness must be stopped—stopped by a reliable and durable peace, as well as Russia’s accountability for this cynical war," he emphasised. Earlier on Monday, Zelensky claimed that around 30 North Korean troops were killed or wounded in Russia's Kursk border region. This was the first reported casualties since Kyiv announced that Pyongyang had sent 10,000 troops to Russia to help in its war with Ukraine. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Trump To Talk To Zelensky, Putin To End War × Prior to that, he said that he had "preliminary evidence that the Russians have begun to use soldiers from North Korea in assaults, a noticeable number of them." Washington and Seoul have also accused Pyongyang of sending over 10,000 troops to support Moscow following the signing of a significant defence agreement between Russia and North Korea earlier this year. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

US top diplomat Antony Blinken warned Wednesday (Nov 13) that the deployment of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces on the Ukrainian border demanded a "firm response," during talks with top EU and NATO officials.

The secretary of state was in Brussels to confer with Washington's allies on ramping up support for Kyiv before Donald Trump reclaims the White House –&nbsp;potentially jeopardising future aid.

Addressing reporters alongside NATO chief Mark Rutte, Blinken said they had discussed the entry of Pyongyang's forces "into the battle, and now, quite literally, in combat –&nbsp;which demands and will get a firm response."

The US State Department confirmed Tuesday that thousands of North Korean troops have begun "engaging in combat operations" alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region, near the border with Ukraine.

Blinken called it "a profound and incredibly dangerous development", without specifying what form a US response might take.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-incredibly-concerned-by-north-korea-troops-in-russia-confirms-10000-soldiers-have-joined-ukraine-war-775668">Also read:&nbsp;US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war</a>

Rutte meanwhile stressed the crucial role played by China in helping Russia's "war effort", as well as by Iranian weapons deliveries -- paid for with Russian funds that were, in turn, helping Tehran to "destabilize the Middle East".

Blinken's trip came as Trump's election victory, coupled with a political crisis in Germany, heightens fears about the future of assistance for Ukraine at a key point in the fight against Russia's invasion.

The secretary of state told reporters President Joe Biden was "committed to making sure that every dollar we have at our disposal will be pushed out the door between now and January 20," when Trump takes office.

But he also reiterated the call for Washington's allies to step up.

"We're counting on European partners and others to strongly support Ukraine's mobilization," Blinken said –&nbsp;calling for more artillery, more air defences, more munitions as well as training for Kyiv's forces.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine Says Its Troops Clashed With North Korean Soldiers In Russia | WION Originals

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<h2>'More of the same'&nbsp;</h2>

Blinken took part in a meeting of the North Atlantic Council, NATO's decision-making body, before talks with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, who urged allies to "speed up all critical decisions."

"Ukraine's defence cannot be put on hold," Sybiga warned.

The secretary of state also held talks with the European Union's top diplomat Josep Borrell and his successor Kaja Kallas, a Russia hawk who is to take over a few weeks from now.

At her confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Kallas said the bloc must support Ukraine "for as long as it takes, and with as much military, financial and humanitarian help as needed."

Trump has in the past voiced admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin and scoffed at the $175 billion the United States has committed for Ukraine since the start of the war in 2022.

US media have reported Trump's pick for secretary of state may be Senator Marco Rubio –&nbsp;who has argued Washington should show "pragmatism" in its support as the war hits a "stalemate".

The Biden administration has made clear it plans in its remaining weeks to push through the more than $9 billion of remaining funding appropriated by Congress for weapons and other security assistance to Ukraine.

But despite Kyiv's pleas, it seems unlikely Washington will lift its veto on Ukraine's use of long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory –&nbsp;and Blinken did not tackle the issue in Brussels.

"Basically it was to do more of the same but more aggressively" for the remainder of Biden's term, was how one NATO diplomat summed up the US goals, as laid out by Blinken.

Trump in his first term aggressively pushed Europe to step up defence spending and questioned the fairness of the NATO transatlantic alliance –&nbsp;robustly defended by Biden.

"Whatever approach the US leadership takes towards Ukraine, Europe will have to step up, and we will have to take the lead in supporting Ukraine's defence efforts and macro-financial stability," said Olena Prokopenko of the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

US top diplomat Antony Blinken warned Wednesday (Nov 13) that the deployment of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces on the Ukrainian border demanded a "firm response," during talks with top EU and NATO officials.

US top diplomat Antony Blinken warned Wednesday (Nov 13) that the deployment of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces on the Ukrainian border demanded a "firm response," during talks with top EU and NATO officials. The secretary of state was in Brussels to confer with Washington's allies on ramping up support for Kyiv before Donald Trump reclaims the White House – potentially jeopardising future aid. Addressing reporters alongside NATO chief Mark Rutte, Blinken said they had discussed the entry of Pyongyang's forces "into the battle, and now, quite literally, in combat – which demands and will get a firm response." The US State Department confirmed Tuesday that thousands of North Korean troops have begun "engaging in combat operations" alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region, near the border with Ukraine. Blinken called it "a profound and incredibly dangerous development", without specifying what form a US response might take. Also read: US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war Rutte meanwhile stressed the crucial role played by China in helping Russia's "war effort", as well as by Iranian weapons deliveries -- paid for with Russian funds that were, in turn, helping Tehran to "destabilize the Middle East". Blinken's trip came as Trump's election victory, coupled with a political crisis in Germany, heightens fears about the future of assistance for Ukraine at a key point in the fight against Russia's invasion. The secretary of state told reporters President Joe Biden was "committed to making sure that every dollar we have at our disposal will be pushed out the door between now and January 20," when Trump takes office. But he also reiterated the call for Washington's allies to step up. "We're counting on European partners and others to strongly support Ukraine's mobilization," Blinken said – calling for more artillery, more air defences, more munitions as well as training for Kyiv's forces. Watch | Ukraine Says Its Troops Clashed With North Korean Soldiers In Russia | WION Originals × 'More of the same' Blinken took part in a meeting of the North Atlantic Council, NATO's decision-making body, before talks with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, who urged allies to "speed up all critical decisions." "Ukraine's defence cannot be put on hold," Sybiga warned. The secretary of state also held talks with the European Union's top diplomat Josep Borrell and his successor Kaja Kallas, a Russia hawk who is to take over a few weeks from now. At her confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Kallas said the bloc must support Ukraine "for as long as it takes, and with as much military, financial and humanitarian help as needed." Trump has in the past voiced admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin and scoffed at the $175 billion the United States has committed for Ukraine since the start of the war in 2022. US media have reported Trump's pick for secretary of state may be Senator Marco Rubio – who has argued Washington should show "pragmatism" in its support as the war hits a "stalemate". The Biden administration has made clear it plans in its remaining weeks to push through the more than $9 billion of remaining funding appropriated by Congress for weapons and other security assistance to Ukraine. But despite Kyiv's pleas, it seems unlikely Washington will lift its veto on Ukraine's use of long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory – and Blinken did not tackle the issue in Brussels. "Basically it was to do more of the same but more aggressively" for the remainder of Biden's term, was how one NATO diplomat summed up the US goals, as laid out by Blinken. Trump in his first term aggressively pushed Europe to step up defence spending and questioned the fairness of the NATO transatlantic alliance – robustly defended by Biden. "Whatever approach the US leadership takes towards Ukraine, Europe will have to step up, and we will have to take the lead in supporting Ukraine's defence efforts and macro-financial stability," said Olena Prokopenko of the German Marshall Fund of the United States. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

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