Czech Republic grants permission for citizens to join Ukrainian armed forces

Czech President Petr Pavel has granted permission for 60 Czech citizens to join the Ukrainian armed forces, as confirmed by a presidential spokesperson to Czech Radio.

This decision follows 181 requests from Czechs looking to assist Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

Under Czech law, citizens must seek presidential approval before fighting for another country's military, or risk criminal prosecution.

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This decision sparked criticism from the Russian Foreign Ministry, with spokesperson Maria Zakharova claiming that President Pavel is endangering the safety of Czech nationals.

As the full-scale invasion continues, approximately 20,000 foreign fighters from more than 50 nationalities have joined Ukraine's international legion, according to Ukrainian officials.

Around 10,000 combat troops from North Korea (DPRK) are now in Russia, with some likely deployed to the Kursk region, according to an intelligence update from the British MOD.

The DPRK and Russia recently deepened their military ties with the ratification of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, which includes a mutual defence clause.

While the partnership has centred on North Korea's provision of arms, Russia is now likely relying on DPRK's troops to bolster its war efforts.

Nationals from as far as Syria, Cuba, Nepal and India have also reportedly been deployed on the Russian side of the war.