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A significant drone assault struck Moscow and surrounding areas early Sunday, causing injury to one person and disrupting operations at several major Russian airports, while simultaneously, Russia launched an extensive drone attack on Ukraine.

The incident follows Putin’s Saturday signing of a military cooperation agreement with North Korea, establishing mutual defense obligations between the nations – their strongest alliance since the Cold War’s conclusion. The pact requires both countries to provide immediate military assistance “using all means” if either faces attack.

This development comes after Ukraine’s first reported encounter with North Korean military units. American intelligence had previously confirmed North Korea’s deployment of at least 3,000 troops to Russia, raising concerns about regional stability and the conflict’s expansion.

While both sides remain secretive about war casualties despite reports of heavy Russian losses from “human wave” tactics, Britain’s defense chief Tony Radakin revealed to the BBC that October marked Russia’s deadliest month since launching its full invasion. He cited daily Russian casualties averaging 1,500, totaling 700,000 throughout the conflict.

“There is no doubt that Russia is making tactical, territorial gains and that is putting pressure on Ukraine,” Radakin stated, noting these advances came at tremendous cost for minimal territorial gains, straining Russia’s defense budget significantly.

Radakin emphasized the importance of continued Western support for Ukraine, even as Trump’s allies suggest potential territorial concessions for peace.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed optimism about Trump’s upcoming presidency, stating: “At least, he talks about peace … he does not talk about confrontation.” Peskov added: “The signals are positive. Trump, during his election campaign, said that he perceives everything through deals, that he can make deals that will lead everyone toward peace. He does not talk about a desire to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia, and this favorably distinguishes him from the current (US) administration.”

Russian officials reported intercepting 70 drones overnight, including 34 near Moscow, causing temporary airport closures. A woman suffered burns southeast of Moscow, while Ukraine’s air force reported Russia launching 145 drones, with 62 shot down and 67 disabled through electronic interference. In Odesa, Russian drone strikes injured at least one person in residential areas.