KYIV, Dec 25 (V7N) -  Ukrainian military intelligence has reported the presence of approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers, including 500 officers and three generals, fighting alongside Russian troops in the Kursk region. Despite their involvement, their impact on the battlefield has been described as minimal.

Yevgen Yerin, spokesperson for Ukraine's military intelligence service (GUR), stated that the North Korean troops have limited experience with modern warfare tactics, particularly the use of drones, and rely on outdated combat methods reminiscent of World War II.

"While their tactics are primitive, they are learning, and we cannot underestimate them," Yerin said, noting that their adaptation to modern warfare has been observed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that nearly 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the conflict so far. South Korea has also reported over 1,100 North Korean casualties and suggested that Pyongyang may be preparing to send reinforcements or drones to Russia.

Neither Russia nor North Korea has officially confirmed the presence of North Korean forces on the frontlines. The reported deployment highlights growing international dimensions in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, raising concerns about the involvement of external actors.

The situation in the Kursk region, which has been partly occupied by Ukrainian forces since August, remains a critical point in the ongoing war.

END/WD/RH