Kim Jong Un Orders Increased Ammunition Production to Support Russia in Ukraine
Kim Jong Un has ordered a boost in ammunition production to support Russia’s war in Ukraine. Reports suggest growing military ties between North Korea and Russia, with 15,000 troops deployed. Analysts predict future military exchanges may develop, enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for intensified efforts in ammunition production, aimed at bolstering support for Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. State media reports indicate that during his visits to various munitions and machinery facilities, Kim expressed satisfaction with modernization initiatives that could potentially double the nation’s annual shell output. This directive comes amid increased tensions and military activity in the region.
In recent days, both South Korea and Japan have accused North Korea of preparing missile shipments for Russia, as the isolated regime launched a series of rockets into the Sea of Japan. These reports highlight the growing military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow over the past two years, characterized by the deployment of an estimated 15,000 North Korean troops to assist Russian forces. This deployment reportedly follows a significant visit from Russian President Vladimir Putin to North Korea in 2024.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) did not provide specific comments from Kim Jong Un regarding his support of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, although he emphasized to factory workers the importance of enhancing the “fighting efficiency” of the North Korean military. South Korean intelligence has suggested that out of the 15,000 troops deployed, approximately 5,000 have been reported as casualties in conflicts against Ukrainian forces.
Last month marked a significant moment for North Korea, as the nation’s government finally acknowledged its military presence in Eastern Europe, confirming the assistance of troops to Russia in efforts to reclaim parts of the Kursk region. Meanwhile, Putin expressed gratitude to Kim for this support, making statements promising not to overlook North Korea’s contributions.
Geopolitical analysts have anticipated that the ongoing cooperation between these two nations could pave the way for expanded military exchanges that may benefit both sides. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service revealed in a private briefing that it believes North Korea has dispatched around 15,000 workers to Russia as part of industrial cooperation agreements.
Moreover, while there are no concrete indications of cash payments from Russia to North Korea for these services, it appears that compensation may involve air defense missiles, electronic warfare systems, drones, and technology for launching spy satellites. This intricate arrangement raises questions about the evolving dynamics of military and industrial partnerships between North Korea and Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine.
In summary, Kim Jong Un’s push for increased ammunition production highlights North Korea’s growing military involvement in support of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The longstanding military collaboration between the two nations has intensified, with thousands of North Korean soldiers reportedly deployed to aid Russian forces. Speculation surrounding future military exchanges adds to the complex geopolitical landscape, reflecting a close alliance that may further influence regional stability.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
