Russia Launches Major Counteroffensive in Kursk with 50,000 Troops, Including North Korean Soldiers

Nov 11, 2024, 03:25 PM

Russia has launched a significant counteroffensive in the Kursk region, deploying 50,000 troops, including North Korean soldiers, to regain control of the territory from Ukrainian forces. This escalation comes amid a series of drone strikes exchanged between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides seeking leverage before January, when Donald Trump has pledged to end the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the presence of nearly 50,000 Russian troops in Kursk, highlighting the intense military buildup. Analysts suggest that Moscow aims to solidify its position before potential changes in U.S. foreign policy under the incoming administration. The Kremlin decided to drive the Ukrainian Armed Forces out of the Kursk region before Trump’s inauguration, so as not to allow Zelensky to manipulate the negotiating track.