In a first, Russia confirms North Korean soldiers fought against Ukraine in Kursk region

Russia on Saturday confirmed that North Korean soldiers, in a joint effort, fought against Ukraine in the Kursk, adding that the region is now "fully liberated" from Kyiv's control.

'The last settlement in the Kursk region'

Chief of staff Valery Gerasimov informed Vladimir Putin that Russian army has fully liberated Kursk region from Ukraine's control.

Ukraine had hoped that it would use the Kursk region as a bargaining chip amid truce talks.

During a video conference meeting with Putin, Gerasimov said, "Today, the last settlement in the Kursk region, the village of Gornal, has been liberated from Ukrainian forces."

'Kyiv regime's adventure has completely failed'

In response, Putin thanked the soldiers and said that the liberation of Kursk will now help Russia for further advances in Ukraine.

"The Kyiv regime's adventure has completely failed," Putin told Gerasimov.

North Korean soldiers fought against Ukrainian troops

Further, Gerasimov added that North Korean soldiers also participated in "combat missions shoulder to shoulder with Russian servicemen during the repelling of the Ukrainian incursion" and "demonstrated high professionalism, showed fortitude, courage and heroism in battle".

Gerasimov hailed the "heroism" of North Korean soldiers, saying that they "provided significant assistance in defeating the group of Ukrainian armed forces."

South Korean and Western intelligence agencies had earlier said that over 10,000 North Korean soldiers joined Russia last year in offensive against Kursk.

Now, threats loom over the Ukrainian region of Sumy, which is said to be Russia's next target. In recent weeks, Moscow carried out incursions in Sumy.

Zelenskyy meets Trump

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met US President Donald Trump before the funeral of Pope Francis in the Vatican.

Following their meet, White House said that the two leaders had a " very productive" discussion.

Taking to X, Zelenskyy wrote, "We discussed a lot one on one. Hoping for results on everything we covered. Protecting lives of our people. Full and unconditional ceasefire. Reliable and lasting peace that will prevent another war from breaking out." "Very symbolic meeting that has potential to become historic, if we achieve joint results. Thank you," he added.