Explosions were reported across Kyiv early on Tuesday, with missile debris landing in a residential courtyard and a fire breaking out in a non-residential building. Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported the incident on Telegram. This attack followed a previous day's announcement by President Volodymyr Zelensky, who stated that nine people had died and over 80 were injured due to recent Russian drone strikes nationwide, including in Kyiv.
President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on Monday that over 8,000 North Korean troops are currently in Russia, with preparations underway to deploy an additional 10,000. In a post on X, he stated these troops are being selected for training before their deployment. This announcement came amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with Zelensky calling on South Korea to enhance Ukraine's air defence.
In August, Zelensky estimated that up to 50,000 North Koreans might be sent to support Russia's efforts. South Korea had pledged $100 million in non-lethal aid to Ukraine in July. The exchange between Zelensky and South Korea followed a tense situation regarding Ukraine's transfer of two captured North Korean soldiers to Seoul.
Russia has placed the assets of German retailer Metro AG under temporary administration via a presidential decree, published on Monday. The decree transferred control of the assets to UK Torg RUS, established earlier this month and wholly owned by Johannes Tolay, Metro's Russian CEO. This move came after a rare meeting between Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov and his German counterpart Johann Wadephul at the UN General Assembly.
A senior NATO official, Alexus Grynkewich, urged European nations to openly condemn Russian sabotage to demonstrate solidarity and strengthen support for Ukraine. Grynkewich informed EU lawmakers that incidents, including cyberattacks and drone activities, have surged in various European nations. By attributing these actions to Russia publicly, Grynkewich suggested European countries could deter further aggression.
Zelensky warned of continued threats from North Korea, accusing Russia of recruiting foreign soldiers amidst escalating conflicts. He stated that North Korea is set to deploy 10,000 new troops to the frontlines, adding that over 8,000 troops from North Korea are already in Russia. Zelensky also warned that Russia's support for North Korea includes technology transfers.
At least 10 people were reported killed across Ukraine on Monday due to relentless strikes. In Kyiv, two individuals died when a drone struck the National Academy of Sciences amidst some of the heaviest drone attacks since the conflict began. Emergency services confirmed that one victim was recovered from the rubble, with 24 others wounded, and six requiring hospital treatment.
Key points
- North Korea plans to deploy an additional 10,000 troops to Russia.
- Recent Russian drone strikes nationwide resulted in nine fatalities and over 80 injuries.
- Russia seized control of Metro's assets amid tensions with Germany.
