North Korea Supplies Artillery to Russia

Recent intelligence from South Korea reveals that North Korea has supplied additional artillery systems, including 170mm self-propelled guns and 240mm rocket launchers, to Russia for its ongoing war in Ukraine. North Korean troops, estimated at around 11,000, have also been deployed to Russia, with some reportedly engaging in combat alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region. This military cooperation is seen as part of a deeper alignment between North Korea and Russia amid their respective confrontations with the U.S. and its allies. The National Intelligence Service of South Korea noted that North Korean personnel are likely providing training and maintenance for these unfamiliar artillery systems. The situation has raised international concerns, particularly in light of U.S. President Biden's decision to allow Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia with longer-range missiles, which was influenced by North Korea's involvement. The escalating military ties between North Korea and Russia could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.