Ukrainian special forces report no North Korean troops in Russia's Kursk region for three weeks, likely due to heavy casualties. Out of 11,000 North Korean troops sent to support Russia, 1,000 have died in three months. Reports suggest North Koreans are unprepared for modern warfare. Meanwhile, Russia and North Korea have strengthened ties, with North Korea providing ammunition to Moscow. Ukraine aims to maintain control over Kursk for potential peace negotiations. Full article (bbc.com europe)