Slovak Prime Minister to Attend Moscow Commemorations Amid Ongoing Ukraine War
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accepted an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the 80th anniversary commemorations of the victory over Nazi Germany in Moscow in May 2025. Fico, who has maintained close ties with the Kremlin, expressed his commitment to the legacy of the fight against fascism and the historical significance of the Red Army's role in World War II. His visit comes at a time when he has halted military aid to Ukraine and is advocating for peace talks with Russia, mirroring the stance of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
In addition to Fico, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic is also expected to attend the celebrations, which the Kremlin aims to make the largest in its history. This event highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Europe, particularly as the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate.
North Korean Involvement in Ukraine War
Recent developments have revealed that North Korean soldiers are actively participating in the Ukraine war, with South Korea confirming casualties among these troops. Approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers are believed to be stationed in the Russian border region of Kursk, where they have reportedly engaged in combat against Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that clashes with North Korean soldiers have occurred, although casualty figures remain unverified.
Moreover, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is reportedly ramping up missile production to support Russia's military efforts in Ukraine. Satellite imagery suggests significant expansion at a missile production facility in Hamhung, indicating an increase in the production of ballistic missiles. This collaboration between North Korea and Russia underscores the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict, as both nations seek to bolster their military capabilities.
As the war continues, experts warn that Russia's economy is facing a gradual decline due to Western sanctions, which could impact its long-term military sustainability. Former Sberbank manager Oliver Kempkens suggests that a potential solution for peace may involve offering economic support to Russia, despite the counterintuitive nature of such a proposal from a Western perspective.
