Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov held a weekly video call with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, discussed with him the current situation on the front, in particular, in Pokrovsk and Kursk axes.

"We also separately addressed the involvement of North Korean military personnel in the war against Ukraine," Umerov said on Facebook on Friday.

The parties also noted the continued support of the U.S. for the Ukrainian defense industry.

"For our side, Ukraine is actively developing its own production capabilities and is thankful to the United States for assistance in this direction. Together with our allies, we will continue strengthening our defense by ensuring the Armed Forces have everything they need," Umerov said.

As reported, the U.S. Department of Defense said on Friday an additional security assistance package to address Ukraine's critical security and defense needs. The $425 million package is the 69th tranche of U.S. President Joseph Biden's administration since August 2021 and includes air defense systems, missile and artillery ammunition, armored vehicles, and anti-tank weapons.