Ukrainian special operations forces have given an insight into the brutal, near-suicidal tactics of the North Koreans they have faced in intense fighting in the Russian border region of Kursk.

Russia on Sunday claimed its troops had captured a strategically important town in eastern Ukraine, as part of a grinding campaign to weaken Kyiv’s grip on the country’s industrial heartland.

A Ukrainian special forces commander says North Korean troops have moved back from the fighting for roughly a fortnight

While Russia has received support from various allies, recent reports suggest a growing presence of North Korean troops on the battlefield. Their involvement raises questions about their role in the conflict and the equipment they bring to the fight.