Ukraine war briefing: Putin orders army expansion as Zelenskyy says more North Koreans to be deployed in Russia
Putin’s order comes as both Russian and Ukrainian forces suffer mounting casualties. What we know on day 1,679
TL;DR
- Putin ordered an increase in the Russian army size to 1.55 million active servicemen.
- Zelenskyy stated that over 8,000 North Korean troops are in Russia, with plans to deploy another 10,000.
- Explosions were heard in Kyiv; Russia continues near-daily attacks.
- Pope Francis urged Russia and Ukraine to dialogue to end the war.
- NATO commander stated Russia's sabotage campaign in Europe is failing.
- Ukraine will postpone reconstruction work due to delays in foreign aid.
- Putin placed Russian assets of German retailer Metro AG under temporary administration.
- A Russian drone damaged a Ukrainian border checkpoint near Poland.