### Zelensky Warns of North Korean Troops Joining Russian Forces

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky raised alarms on Thursday about the potential deployment of 10,000 North Korean troops to support Russian forces in their ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This development, he cautioned, could escalate the war into a global crisis.

During a meeting with European Union leaders and NATO defense ministers, Zelensky discussed his comprehensive "victory plan" aimed at bringing the war to an end. The urgent discussions reflect the high stakes involved, especially given Zelensky's warning about North Korea's potential involvement.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte clarified that there has been no confirmation of North Korean troops preparing to enter the conflict. This statement comes amid increasing concerns about the war's expansion and the broader international implications.

In a related context, a podcast interview released on Thursday featured former President Donald Trump, who placed blame on Zelensky for allowing the war to start, despite the fact that Russia initiated the invasion. This comment was reported by the Washington Post and adds another layer of complexity to the discourse surrounding the conflict.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued his own warning to the West, suggesting that approving long-range weapons for Ukraine could heighten the risk of war with Russia. This pronouncement underscores the delicate balance of power and the potential for further escalation as international players navigate their roles in the conflict.