The BBC has learned that thousands of North Koreans are being sent to Russia to work in slave-like conditions, filling a labor shortage exacerbated by the ongoing war in Ukraine. These workers face abysmal working conditions, including long hours with little rest, minimal safety equipment, and constant surveillance by North Korean authorities. Many are confined to construction sites and subjected to punishing schedules, with a majority of their earnings sent directly to the North Korean state. Despite UN sanctions banning the use of North Korean labor, Moscow is increasingly relying on these workers.
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A UN report reveals that North Korea has supplied Russia with over 20,000 containers of munitions since September 2023, including ballistic missiles used in attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure. This military cooperation, solidified by a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty, violates UN sanctions and allows Russia to intensify its attacks on cities like Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia. In return for this aid, Russia is assisting North Korea’s spy satellite program and providing technological advancements to its ballistic missile capabilities. The report also highlights the deployment of approximately 14,000 North Korean soldiers fighting in Ukraine.
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Satellite imagery analysis by the Open Source Centre reveals that Russia has provided North Korea with over one million barrels of oil since March 2024, violating UN sanctions. This oil is believed to be compensation for weapons and troops North Korea has supplied to Russia for its war in Ukraine. These transfers, documented across 43 tanker voyages, represent a significant breach of international agreements and demonstrate a deepening relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang. Experts warn that this oil-for-arms exchange destabilizes regional security and shows disregard for international sanctions.
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The recent incident involving the Chinese military harassing a Dutch warship enforcing UN sanctions on North Korea is just another example of China’s aggressive behavior in international waters. It’s truly baffling to see China playing the victim card, claiming that everyone is disrespecting and threatening them, when in reality, they are the ones engaging in provocative actions.
Approaching foreign warships in a threatening manner is not only reckless but also dangerous. The Dutch and Canadian ships are armed with advanced weaponry like Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM), which could easily defend against any aggressive moves by the Chinese military. It seems like China is intentionally provoking these situations to justify bringing in more assets and escalating tensions in the region.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker