North Korea’s Weapon Supplies Bolster Russia’s Military Efforts in Ukraine
- North Korea supplies 40% of Russian artillery ammunition in Ukraine.
- Kirill Budanov indicated North Korea sends artillery shells, missiles, and systems.
- North Korean missiles caused 60% of Ukrainian military losses recently.
- Russia’s collaboration with North Korea deepens post-Putin’s visit to Pyongyang.
- US President Trump has ordered increased military support for Ukraine.
North Korea Supplies Artillery and Ballistic Missiles to Russia
According to Kirill Budanov, the chief of Ukraine’s military intelligence, a concerning trend has emerged in the ongoing war in Ukraine: North Korea is reportedly supplying a staggering 40 percent of the artillery ammunition used by Russia. In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Budanov discussed how the Kim Jong-un regime is not only sending artillery shells but also ballistic missiles and complete artillery systems to bolster the Russian military. He indicated that in exchange for these weaponry supplies, Russia provides financial support and advanced technology, which helps North Korea alleviate its international isolation.
Collaboration Between Russia and North Korea Deepening
Budanov offered a grim statistic, noting that North Korean missiles have accounted for up to 60 percent of the casualties suffered by Ukrainian forces over the past three months. His remarks highlight the seamless functioning of North Korea’s arms production capabilities, described as operating around the clock to meet demand. Since a key visit by Vladimir Putin to Pyongyang, marking his first trip in 24 years, the collaboration between Russia and North Korea has intensified, solidified by a Strategic Partnership Agreement.
US Reactions and Military Support for Ukraine
In a worrying development for Ukraine, Budanov claimed that North Korean troops have also been sent to assist Russian forces in key conflict regions, particularly in Kursk. Western intelligence estimates have confirmed that millions of shells have been dispatched from North Korea to bolster Russia’s military efforts. The situation on the ground remains equally concerning, as President Trump, despite his previous hesitations regarding military aid, has ramped up arms deliveries to Ukraine including essential air defense systems. His recent comments suggesting that President Putin is ‘killing a lot of people’ underscore covert international tensions surrounding the conflict.
The current state of military cooperation between North Korea and Russia is shaping the war in Ukraine and poses significant threats to Ukrainian forces. With North Korea supplying a substantial arsenal and thousands of troops reportedly dispatched to Russia, the implications for Ukraine’s defense are becoming increasingly dire. As discussions for a ceasefire continue, the situation remains fluid, but the ongoing military support from the US suggests that Ukraine may have a prolonged fight ahead in this conflict.
