Russia has announced that it has fully retaken the Kursk border region from Ukrainian forces, claiming the expulsion of all Ukrainian troops. The Kremlin has reported that North Korean soldiers assisted in the operations, further asserting control over the area. However, Ukrainian officials vehemently deny these claims, insisting that fighting continues and that Ukrainian troops are still present in the region. In a complex backdrop to this military development, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met with former U.S. President Trump at the Vatican, highlighting international diplomatic efforts amidst ongoing conflict.