Russian advance in eastern Ukraine slowed in January — British intelligence

Russia has taken control of the Velyka Novosilka stronghold, though progress along most of the front line has been relatively slow, according to a British intelligence report.

The report also highlighted that Russia's advance accelerated throughout 2024, with over 700 square kilometers captured by November, marking one of the fastest rates of territorial gain since the conflict began.

Additionally, in Kursk Oblast, Russia made minor advances in January 2025, while North Korean troops temporarily withdrew from the front line.

The report speculates that this pullback was likely due to heavy losses suffered during attacks on Ukrainian positions, with the North Korean units expected to rest and re-equip before redeployment.