The Russians continue to engage North Korean army units in combat operations in the Kursk region. On New Year's Eve, North Korean soldiers got drunk, according to Ukrainian Defense Intelligence. According to Defense Intelligence of Ukraine,

Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine’s energy grid, leaving many in the country in the dark over the holiday. Retired Col. Jack Jacobs shares his thoughts about recent developments in Ukraine and a potential twist in North Korea’s involvement.

The North Korean army is one of the world’s largest.​ As it joins Russia’s war against Ukraine, its soldiers are paying a price for Kim Jong-un’s geopolitical maneuvers.

The North Korean authorities are reportedly handing out "war certificates" to families of soldiers killed in action on the front line of Russia's war against Ukraine. Newsweek reached out to the Russian Foreign Ministry and the North Korean Embassy in China with written requests for comment.

In one week there were more than a thousand North Koreans casualties in the fight with Russia against Ukraine. U.S. officials say they are sent into battle with little equipment or preparation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has reported significant battlefield losses among North Korean troops fighting in Ukraine, claiming they are left unprotected by Russian forces. The statement sheds light on the challenges faced by foreign troops supporting Russia in the conflict and raises questions about the treatment and coordination of allied forces on the front lines.