In a move to slow Russian advances in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has approved the provision of anti-personnel mines to the Ukrainian military. This comes as reports state that North Korean troops have joined Russian marines and airborne units in battles throughout the country. The addition of anti-personnel mines marks a new level of assistance from the US in the ongoing conflict, with the mines being more deadly and longer-lasting than the previously provided anti-tank mines. Meanwhile, Ukraine's air defence units are actively working to repel a Russian air attack on the capital city of Kyiv.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has announced new sanctions aimed at Russia's "shadow" oil tanker fleet, which is used to transport goods banned under Western sanctions. Despite a history of strained relations, the move comes as the Ukrainian government actively targets Russian assets and individuals who support the country's actions in the ongoing conflict. The sanctions are part of a larger effort to increase pressure on Russia and hold them accountable for their role in the war.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Russia for the BRICS Summit 2024 has kicked off with several bilateral summits discussing key issues such as India-Russia ties, the war in Ukraine, and conflicts with Iran and Israel. The summit, with the theme of 'Strengthening Multilateralism,' will see discussions on global issues and includes new member nations - Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. As major emerging economies, the BRICS group comprises 41% of the world population and 24% of the world GDP, making it an important platform for discussions on global development and security.
In a retaliatory move against anti-Pyongyang leaflets being launched by activists and North Korean defectors in South Korea, North Korea has launched over 5,000 trash-filled balloons towards South Korea. However, amidst this act, South Korea has captured satellite images of North Korean troop movement towards Russia, with evidence of 12,000 troops being deployed to support the ongoing war in Ukraine. While two of the images were attributed to Airbus, the third image was taken by a satellite that South Korea has been operating, equipped with synthetic aperture radar that can collect data regardless of weather.
South Korean intelligence has reported that North Korea has sent 12,000 troops, including special forces, to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine. This development could escalate the conflict and further strain relations between North Korea and the West. However, experts question the effectiveness of North Korea's involvement due to their outdated equipment and lack of battle experience. The move may also indicate a closer alliance between North Korea and Russia, as they signed a defense pact earlier this year in the midst of heightened tensions with the US and South Korea.
After Russian President Vladimir Putin's statement that India, Brazil and China could act as mediators between Russia and Ukraine, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kyiv gains significance. Modi reiterated India's stance on the conflict and stressed the importance of diplomacy in resolving it. He also mentioned India's readiness to contribute to the peace process. This statement comes months after the PM's call for peace during his visit to Poland, firmly advocating the use of diplomacy rather than war.
In a major escalation of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, the Russian officials reported that they have successfully defended the capital city of Moscow against a large drone attack launched by Ukraine. The attack, which targeted the city with a population of over 21 million, was one of the biggest drone strikes on Moscow since the war began in February 2022. The attack comes amidst Russia's advancements in Eastern Ukraine and their ongoing battle to repel Ukraine's incursion into the Kursk region. While the city remains seemingly unaffected by the attack, it marks a significant increase in the use of drones in the conflict between the two nations.
As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, Moscow has accused Ukraine of causing civilian casualties in a children's hospital through anti-missile fire. However, the Institute for the Study of War has revealed that evidence points to Russian missiles being responsible. In the midst of this, China and Belarus have launched joint military exercises near the Polish border, raising concerns ahead of a NATO summit in Washington. Meanwhile, Russian military bloggers have been spreading false narratives in an attempt to deflect blame.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first visit to Moscow since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, with a clear message that New Delhi wants to support a peaceful and stable region. As he meets with President Putin at the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, the focus will be on economic agendas. In other news, an ambush on an Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir has left five soldiers dead and five others injured, while a Supreme Court ruling on a leaked NEET UG 2024 exam may result in a retest. Meanwhile, a Mumbai hit-and-run case has revealed new details about the accused allegedly switching seats with his driver after hitting and dragging a woman on their vehicle for nearly one-and-a-half kilometres.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to make his first visit to North Korea in 24 years, signaling a strengthening of relations between the two nations. The trip comes as North Korea and Russia have deepened military ties, with the North supplying ammunition for Russia's war in Ukraine in exchange for technological assistance and economic aid. Experts believe the visit will result in further cooperation beyond arms transactions and pave the way for a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty between the two countries.