On June 19, 2024, Ukraine accused Russian forces of beheading a Ukrainian soldier in the contested Donetsk region. The severed head was discovered on a damaged armored vehicle during aerial reconnaissance, prompting an investigation by Ukrainian officials. Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin reported the incident, noting Ukraine has documented nearly 130,000 alleged war crimes by Russia.
Simultaneously, Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in North Korea for his first visit in 24 years. Greeted by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the two leaders discussed deepening trade and security ties, aiming to counter US-led sanctions.
Putin's visit comes amid concerns about potential North Korean arms supplies to Russia, which both nations deny. The meeting follows a recent escalation of drone attacks and military hostilities in the region, including a Ukrainian drone strike on oil storage tanks in Rostov, Russia.