North Korea Sends Weapons and Troops to Russia as Ties Grow Closer

North Korea has sent significant military assistance to Russia, including 200 long-range artillery, around 11,000 troops, missiles, and large amounts of ammunition, a South Korean defense official said. This follows as Moscow and Pyongyang strengthen their military relations. The official also said that North Korea may send more troops and weapons in the future.

North Korean troops were sent last year to assist Russia in its war in Ukraine, and some were said to have been killed or captured by Ukrainian forces in the Kursk area. Russia and North Korea have not, however, admitted to sending troops.

The two countries signed an agreement last year that includes a mutual defense provision, which means increased military cooperation. North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, recently expressed his backing of Russia’s actions and stated that he was backing Russia’s efforts to protect its sovereignty and security.

South Korea’s ministry of defense also warned that North Korea may be providing weapons and ammunition to Russia. There are also fears that Moscow may be ready to provide North Korea with sophisticated military technology, including nuclear and missile-related technology, which would significantly increase Pyongyang’s military capabilities.