In a state media-run special, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un is seen weeping over a casket draped with the insular nation's flag as officials from both countries mourn. (Credit: Reuters)

Kim paid public tribute to North Korean soldiers killed in Russia’s war against Ukraine, part of an effort to cement the two countries’ strategic defense pact.

Photos of the leader were the first shared with North Koreans showing the country’s contributions to Russia’s war with Ukraine, with more deployments ahead.

President Donald Trump said he has his eyes on the 50,000 Russian troops deployed to the border near Sumy in Ukraine, where there are fears Moscow is ready to launch a new summer offensive in a war the American leader is trying to end.

Holding the Russians off has become a game of whack-a-mole for outnumbered Ukrainian troops, with Russia frequently opening new lines of attack.

The White House cited Pentagon concerns that some American arms stockpiles were dwindling too low. Among the affected weapons were air defense systems, bombs, missiles and artillery rounds.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met US President Donald Trump at last month's Nato summit The US has halted some weapons shipments to Kyiv, the White House has said, as Russia's war against Ukraine has intensified.