North Korea Supplies Munitions to Russia in Exchange for Satellite Technology
South Korean Spy Agency Gives Insights
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November 02, 2023
In a recent development, South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) has reported that North Korea has been supplying munitions to Russia to aid in its ongoing war against Ukraine, shipping 1,000 containers of military equipment and over a million artillery shells to support Russia's ongoing war effort in the region, the Associated Press reported.
The NIS revealed that Pyongyang has sent the above one million artillery shells to Moscow since early August.
In return, Russia is presumed to be providing North Korea with satellite technology and expertise, as the country makes another attempt to launch a satellite.
According to South Korean lawmaker Yoo Sang-bum, North Korea has made approximately ten arms shipments to Russia, utilizing both air and naval routes. These shipments have taken place between a North Korean east coast port and Russian ports, which corresponds with previous claims made by the United States.
The NIS further disclosed that the majority of the artillery shells were transported by sea, originating from the port of Najin and reaching the Russian ports of Dunai and Vostochny. From there, they were conveyed by train to Ukraine, specifically near the Toretsk ammunition depot.
The estimated quantity of munitions delivered is expected to sustain Russian forces in Ukraine for approximately two months. Meanwhile, Western nations, including the United States, South Korea, and Japan, are struggling to keep up with the demand for ammunition to support Ukraine's forces.
Yoo Sang-bum stated, "North Korea is maximizing its munition production to meet the demand for military supplies to Russia. They are even mobilizing residents and civilian factories to manufacture ammunition boxes for exports." This highlights North Korea's dedication to fulfilling its obligations to Russia.
However, the United States, South Korea, and Japan have strongly condemned North Korea's actions, accusing the country of supplying arms and military equipment to Russia. Furthermore, these nations have criticized Moscow for providing technology and support in return.
Both North Korea and the Kremlin have denied these allegations. Russian Ambassador at Large Oleg Burmistrov responded by stating, "Russia, as a responsible member of the world community, strictly adheres to its international obligations towards Pyongyang through the UN Security Council."
The revelation of North Korea's involvement in supplying munitions to Russia adds a new dimension to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As tensions escalate, it remains to be seen how this revelation will impact the dynamics among the involved parties and their efforts to resolve the crisis.