For the first time, Ukrainian troops have reportedly engaged with North Korean soldiers deployed to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed “small-scale” combat with North Korean forces, who are stationed in Russia’s Kursk region alongside Russian troops.

U.S. and allied intelligence suggests that up to 12,000 North Korean troops may be deployed under a Russia-North Korea pact.

This marks a significant development in the conflict as Russian forces continue to make gains in eastern Ukraine, the Associated Press has reported.

Meanwhile, Russian attacks on civilian areas, including Zaporizhzhia, persist, raising calls from Ukrainian officials for stronger Western support.

Written by B.C. Begley