The war in Ukraine continues to draw unlikely players into its widening scope.
What began nearly three years ago as a regional conflict has grown into something much bigger.
Alliances have shifted, and countries far from the front lines are finding themselves drawn into the fray.
Among the most surprising developments is the reported involvement of North Korean troops, a move that raises questions about how far Russia is willing to go for support, according to Ziare.
First Such Incident
Now, there’s a new twist to this evolving story. A wounded North Korean soldier has reportedly been captured by Ukrainian forces.
This could be the first such incident since North Korea began deploying troops to assist Russia’s military.
South Korea’s intelligence agency confirmed the capture, saying it happened in Russia’s Kursk region.
Photos of the soldier, appearing gaunt and injured, have circulated on messaging apps like Telegram, though details about his condition remain unclear.
The Ukrainian publication Militarnyi reported that special forces carried out the capture. However, neither Ukrainian nor North Korean officials have commented publicly on the event.
Reports suggest North Korea has sent about 11,000 soldiers to aid Russia, following a defense pact signed earlier this year between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The deal promised mutual support if either country was attacked. For Moscow, these troops represent a way to reinforce its struggling forces.
But the North Koreans are reportedly faring poorly. Ukraine’s military intelligence claims that these soldiers are facing heavy losses and logistical issues.
Near the village of Novoivanovka, attacks have left North Korean units with mounting casualties. Supplies are running thin, and even basics like drinking water are in short supply.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky estimates that more than 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in the Kursk region alone. This is the first major figure released on their losses.
