During a Brussels press conference, President Zelensky sharply criticized Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a missile duel over Kyiv, questioning Putin’s sanity. Zelensky dismissed Putin’s claims of a near-agreement in Istanbul, labeling them an ultimatum demanding Ukrainian territorial concessions. He further refuted Putin’s accusations of Zelensky being an illegitimate leader, mocking the Russian president’s assertions. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s need for security guarantees and additional air defense systems before any ceasefire negotiations could begin. He emphasized that a frozen conflict is unacceptable for Ukraine.
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A new report from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service reveals that at least 100 North Korean soldiers have been killed and 1,000 wounded fighting in Ukraine alongside Russian forces. These troops, deployed primarily as front-line infantry, reportedly lack essential capabilities like drone countermeasures, prompting complaints from the Russian military. Further, intelligence suggests Kim Jong Un is preparing a specialized unit for deployment to Ukraine. This deployment of North Korean troops has been characterized as “cannon fodder” by experts, with President Zelensky highlighting the unnecessary sacrifice of North Korean lives in the conflict.
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In a recent address, President Putin proposed a technological demonstration involving a Russian Oreshnik missile strike on a target in Kyiv, chosen by Western and Ukrainian forces. This challenge, highlighting the missile’s purported 5,500 km range and invulnerability to existing air defenses, is framed as a “high-tech duel” to test the West’s claims of its capabilities. Putin’s suggestion implies that even NATO systems in neighboring countries would be unable to intercept the missile. The name’s origin, however, remains unknown to the president himself.
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An intercepted phone call, purportedly between a Moscow hospital nurse and her soldier husband in Kursk Oblast, indicates that hundreds of wounded North Korean troops are arriving by train, filling hospital wards. This aligns with recent Western reports estimating substantial North Korean casualties in the region, possibly due to inexperience. While verification is pending, the claims suggest heavy losses among the reportedly 10,000 North Korean soldiers deployed to support Russia’s offensive in Kursk Oblast. Despite these losses, Russia and its allies maintain a significant offensive pressure in the area.
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The European Union imposed its first comprehensive sanctions on Chinese firms and a Chinese national for supporting Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. These sanctions, targeting entities involved in supplying dual-use goods and technology to Russia’s military, prompted a rebuke from China’s Foreign Ministry, which deemed them unilateral and lacking international legal basis. The EU countered that the sanctions aim to weaken Russia’s military capabilities and those enabling it, highlighting the bloc’s unity in supporting Ukraine. Sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans for individuals.
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As of December 17, 2024, Poland has received 84 K2 Black Panther main battle tanks from South Korea, part of a larger $3.4 billion deal for 180 tanks to be delivered by the end of 2025. This acquisition, alongside K9 howitzers and Homar-K MLRS systems, significantly enhances Poland’s military capabilities, addressing escalating security concerns stemming from the war in Ukraine. The accelerated procurement reflects Poland’s broader defense modernization program, prioritizing rapid acquisition of advanced equipment from partners like South Korea and the United States. Poland plans to begin domestic production of a modified K2 tank in 2026, further solidifying its military strength and defense industrial base.
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A senior US military official reported that several hundred North Korean troops have suffered casualties, ranging from light wounds to fatalities, while fighting alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region. These inexperienced soldiers, deployed as part of a larger reinforcement effort, are reportedly suffering heavy losses against Ukrainian forces. This deployment follows a strengthened military pact between North Korea and Russia. The revelation comes amidst ongoing concerns about the future of US military aid to Ukraine under the incoming administration.
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Ukrainian troops are reporting that the inexperienced North Korean soldiers are proving to be exceptionally easy targets. Their lack of combat readiness is stark, making them vulnerable in the face of modern warfare.
The contrast between their parade-ground training and the realities of a modern battlefield is striking. It seems the emphasis on ceremonial displays hasn’t translated into effective combat skills.
The North Korean soldiers are facing a truly terrifying experience, thrust into a conflict vastly different from anything they’ve ever trained for. The presence of drones and advanced weaponry must feel like facing a futuristic, alien army.
The sheer technological disparity is overwhelming.… Continue reading
President Zelenskyy reported that North Korean soldiers are fighting alongside Russian forces, and preliminary data indicates Russia is attempting to hide the extent of resulting North Korean casualties. Ukrainian forces have documented the deaths of North Korean soldiers in Kursk Oblast, including an incident of friendly fire against Chechen troops. Intelligence suggests significant losses for North Korean units in mid-December, with estimates reaching at least 30 soldiers killed or wounded. The President emphasized the senselessness of North Korean deaths in this conflict.
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In a recent Defense Ministry meeting, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov advocated for preparing for potential war with NATO within the next decade, citing NATO’s July summit decisions and doctrinal shifts as justification. This preparation includes the establishment of a new military branch dedicated to unmanned systems, slated for completion in 2025. President Putin echoed these concerns, accusing the West of escalating tensions through increased military presence and potential missile deployments, prompting Russia to threaten retaliatory measures. Belousov also claimed significantly higher Ukrainian casualties than reported by Kyiv and Western sources.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood