Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a decree expanding the country’s active military forces by 15,500 servicemen to reach 1.55 million personnel. The expansion represents the latest increase in Russian military capacity, following a similar order issued the previous month, and brings total armed forces to approximately 2.44 million. The move comes amid reports of significant casualties sustained by both Russia and Ukraine throughout the ongoing conflict that has lasted more than four and a half years.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that North Korean troop deployments to Russia have grown substantially, with more than 8,000 soldiers already present on Russian territory. Zelenskyy indicated that additional preparations were underway for the deployment of another 10,000 North Korean troops. Ukrainian and South Korean estimates suggest that between 14,000 and 15,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to support Russia’s war effort since 2024, with the majority concentrated in the Kursk region to counter Ukrainian military operations.
Russia continued intensive military operations against Ukrainian targets, with explosions reported in Kyiv early on Tuesday morning. According to Kyiv’s mayor, missile debris struck residential areas and damaged buildings throughout the capital. Zelenskyy reported that Russian drone strikes across the country killed nine people and injured more than 80 on Monday alone.
Economic and diplomatic developments also marked the week. Ukraine announced postponement of certain spending commitments, including reconstruction projects, due to delays in foreign aid, with government officials prioritizing critical areas. Putin signed an order placing the Russian assets of German retailer Metro AG under temporary administration, continuing Russia’s pattern of seizing Western company operations in the country. Additionally, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander stated that Russia’s sabotage campaign across Europe, which has included incidents such as an explosive-laden drone discovery and naval confrontations, has failed to diminish international support for Ukraine.
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