"Some of these troops have already taken part in combat operations against Ukrainian forces, and there are already casualties."Zelensky did not provide further information on the number of casualties.Kursk Oblast has seen heavy battles since Ukraine launched a cross-border offensive in early August.Moscow has deployed North Korean troops there to reinforce lines there while its most experienced units continue advancing in Ukraine's east.Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed on Nov. 5 that the first clashes between the Ukrainian Armed Forces and North Korean soldiers had already taken place.Zelensky has previously said that if Ukraine had permission to use Western long-range weapons on Russian territory, it could preemptively target "every camp" in Russia where North Korean troops are gathering.Speaking on Nov. 7 he reiterated his call.