Over 300 drones and seven missiles, including North Korean KN23 short-range ballistic missiles, were used in a recent large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine, resulting in three deaths. Ukrainian officials reported that these North Korean missiles, initially inaccurate, have demonstrated increased precision in recent attacks. This improvement in accuracy is cause for concern and underscores the need for international pressure on Pyongyang to cease military cooperation with Moscow. The Ukrainian foreign ministry urged the international community to act.
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According to Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence, Russia and North Korea have agreed to begin establishing a production line for Shahed-type drones within North Korea. This collaboration will involve the manufacture of both Garpiya and Geran drones, Russian designations for Iranian Shahed-136 models. The agreement is expected to significantly shift the military balance in the Korean Peninsula. While production has yet to commence, the deal marks a notable escalation in regional military capabilities.
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In exchange for North Korean troops supporting its war effort in Ukraine, Russia has supplied Pyongyang with air defense missile systems, bolstering its air defense network. South Korean officials believe these systems, potentially including S-400 missiles, were provided alongside other military technologies and economic aid. This arms transfer is seen as a significant development, particularly given North Korea’s recent concerns about drone incursions. While experts question the overall effectiveness of the transferred systems, the deal highlights growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea in the face of Western sanctions and opposition.
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John Q. Hosedrinker