The United States has accused Russia of using ballistic missiles and launchers supplied by North Korea in its war on Ukraine. This revelation marks a significant escalation in the conflict and has raised concerns about Pyongyang’s support for Russia and its potential military cooperation with the North Korean regime. The US has vowed to raise the matter at the UN Security Council and impose additional sanctions on those involved in facilitating arms transfers. However, Russia has denied any collaboration with North Korea in acquiring these weapons.
The use of ballistic missiles, which are self-guided rockets capable of hitting targets up to 900km away, by Russia in the Ukraine war is a violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions. The National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, stated during a White House press briefing that Russia’s procurement of ballistic missiles from North Korea is a clear breach of its international obligations. The US will demand that Russia be held accountable for this violation.
Moreover, the US intelligence community’s sharing of this information is significant as it is the first time detailed evidence regarding Russia’s use of North Korean ballistic missiles has been made public. Previously, the US had accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons, but the specific involvement of ballistic missiles has only now been disclosed. This development highlights the increasing threat posed by Russia and its acquisition of advanced weaponry.
The United Kingdom has joined the US in condemning Russia’s use of ballistic missiles sourced from North Korea in Ukraine. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office affirmed their commitment to working with international partners to ensure that North Korea faces consequences for supporting Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine. As North Korea is already subject to a comprehensive sanctions regime, further measures may be taken to increase the pressure on Pyongyang.
In addition to the use of North Korean ballistic missiles, concerns have been raised about Russia’s potential purchase of close-range missiles from Iran. While there is no confirmed evidence of such a transaction taking place, the US believes that Russia has plans to acquire these weapons. This casts a spotlight on the complex web of arms dealing and potential collaborations between rogue regimes, further destabilizing the global security landscape.
The US government is urging Congress to approve additional funding for Ukraine to provide vital air defense capabilities and other military equipment promptly. The most effective response to Russia’s violence against the Ukrainian people is to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, according to Mr. Kirby. However, talks on further funding have stalled due to a lack of support among Republican lawmakers, who insist on incorporating stricter security measures on the US-Mexico border into any military aid package.
For Ukraine, the delay in receiving Western aid poses significant risks to its war effort and public finances. If further assistance does not materialize soon, Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression will be compromised, potentially allowing Russia to strengthen its grip on Ukrainian territory. The situation calls for swift action and decisive support from the international community to counterbalance Russia’s military advancements and protect Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Overall, Russia’s use of North Korean ballistic missiles in the Ukraine war underscores the evolving and volatile nature of global conflicts. This development heightens concerns about illicit arms transfers, collaborative efforts between rogue states, and the need for stringent international enforcement of sanctions. The repercussions of this escalation extend beyond Ukraine and require a comprehensive response to maintain regional stability and safeguard international security.
