Ukraine reports first confirmed North Korean casualties in Ukraine conflict, following earlier claims of troop presence

There is a reported conflict between North Korean troops and the Ukrainian army in the Kursk region, with varying casualty numbers. The Ukrainian military intelligence agency claims that around 30 North Korean troops have been killed or injured, while the Pentagon suggests there may be some casualties but does not provide a specific number. The US and Ukrainian governments have stated that North Korea had sent 10,000 to 12,000 troops to Russia, which Russia has not commented on. Russia's defense minister has stated that Moscow must be ready to fight the NATO military alliance in Europe.