A team of high-level Russian diplomats is visiting Pyongyang, but their mission in the North Korean capital is unknown.

The following is an excerpt from Mark Galeotti's book, "Putin's Wars: From Chechnya to Ukraine." Most countries' special forces emphasize physical fitness, determination and aggression. Russia's ...

The history of the country's special forces dates back to 1919, when special units were formed in Russia. These Spetsnaz units carry out missions during both wartime and peacetime, in emergencies ...