"North Korea Supplies Russia with Millions of Artillery Shells Over 20 Months"

Assessment: "North Korea's Contribution Was Strategically Important"

Investigations have revealed that North Korea supplied millions of artillery shells over 20 months to enable Russia's invasion of Ukraine. On the 15th (local time), Reuters reported this after collaborating with the UK-based security research firm Open Source Center (OSC) to investigate the matter.

From September 2023 until recently, North Korea transported millions of artillery shells to the frontlines of the war in Ukraine using large-scale transport methods such as ships and trains. Ships loaded with shells at Rason Port in North Korea moved to Russia's Vostochny Port and Dunay Port, where the shells were transferred onto trains and sent to Ukraine.

Reuters extensively covered container shipping records of the related vessels, Russian artillery reports obtained by Ukraine, satellite images, and statements from senior Ukrainian officials. It also explained that Russia relied on North Korean support during its war with Ukraine.

Yonhap News

Hugh Griffiths, former coordinator of the UN Security Council Panel of Experts on North Korea Sanctions, stated, "North Korea's contribution was strategically important," adding, "Without the support of North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un, Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have been able to wage war in Ukraine."