Drones strike Moscow as UK reports high Russian casualties in Ukraine

Tensions are also rising as Russia and North Korea strengthen their military ties. President Vladimir Putin recently signed an agreement with North Korea that allows the two countries to provide military help to each other if either is attacked. Ukraine reports seeing North Korean troops on the battlefield, with US officials estimating at least 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to Russia.

The UK’s top defense official, Tony Radakin, has estimated Russia’s military losses at around 700,000 since the start of the war in February 2022, with about 1,500 casualties every day.

Despite these losses, Russia has made only small advances in eastern Ukraine, putting pressure on Ukraine but also stretching its own resources.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is calling for stronger support from Western allies to ensure justice and security amid continuous Russian drone and missile strikes. Meanwhile, the Kremlin is cautiously optimistic about President-elect Donald Trump, who has suggested a more diplomatic approach to US-Russia relations.

The ongoing conflict is taking a heavy toll on both sides, with leaders around the world divided on the best path forward.