(Reuters): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that Russian and North Korean forces experienced substantial losses during battles in Russia’s Kursk region. He mentioned that Ukrainian and Western sources estimate about 11,000 North Korean troops are stationed there, where Ukrainian forces gained ground after a major cross-border incursion in August.

Zelenskiy mentioned a report by Ukrainian commander Oleksandr Syrskyi about fighting in the village of Makhnovka, which is near the Ukrainian border, in his nightly video message. Zelenskiy said Russian paratroopers and up to a battalion of North Korean infantry personnel were killed in a fierce battle in this region. He underlined how important these losses were, but he gave no precise numbers or information.

The size of the alleged losses is highlighted by the fact that a battalion normally consists of several hundred personnel. However, Reuters and other sources were unable to independently verify Zelenskiy's assertions at this time.

In the past, the president has accused the Russian forces with which North Korea is allied of failing to support them, citing significant losses among North Korean forces in the Kursk region. He added that North Korean forces have been evading arrest by using extreme tactics, such as being allegedly killed by their own leaders.

Zelenskiy’s latest remarks also noted intense fighting along the entire 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) frontline, describing the situation near the city of Pokrovsk as particularly challenging. Russian forces, he said, continue to suffer heavy casualties while launching relentless assaults.

Russian troops have resumed their attacks on Pokrovsk, which has been designated as the most crucial frontline region. According to the Ukrainian military spokeswoman, Russian forces are trying to cut off Ukrainian supply lines by avoiding the town from the south. This tactic emphasizes the location's strategic significance.

Once inhabited by about 60,000 people, Pokrovsk is now a vital battleground since it is the only source of coking coal for Ukraine's steel industry. Despite the ongoing violence, Ukrainian officials estimate that about 11,000 civilians are still in the city.

The battle near Pokrovsk and in the Kursk region emphasizes the high stakes and growing tensions for both sides. According to reports, Ukrainian forces have advanced in several regions, but the combat is still intense and expensive.

With major ramifications for the Russian and North Korean soldiers stationed in the area, Zelenskiy's speech provided insight into the changing nature of the conflict. The significant losses that have been reported highlight the difficulties these forces have encountered.

Both sides have suffered heavy losses, and the situation is still unstable overall. Both military troops and citizens are still impacted by the fighting, which makes attempts to bring about regional stability much more difficult.