DATA & FIGURES
North Korea has supplied Russia with millions of artillery and mortar rounds, 148 KN-23 and KN-24 ballistic missiles, and 4 million artillery shells since mid-2023. The country has also sent 1,000 sappers and 5,000 military construction workers to Kursk to clear mines and help rebuild infrastructure damaged in the fighting. Additionally, 40 North Korean missiles have already been supplied, with at least two of which were launched at Ukraine last week during a deadly strike.
THE SCENARIO
The cooperation between North Korea and Russia is part of a broader geopolitical context, with both nations seeking to challenge the global dominance of the United States and its allies. The move is also seen as an attempt by North Korea to gain economic benefits and access to advanced military technology, while Russia seeks to bolster its military capabilities in the face of international sanctions.
DIRECT QUOTE
"Participation in the war was justified as an exercise of North Korea’s sovereign rights in defense of a “brother nation.”" — Kim Jong Un, North Korean Leader
BBN INSIGHT
The Positive Side: The cooperation between North Korea and Russia could lead to increased economic benefits for both nations, with North Korea gaining access to Russian oil and other resources. However, The Negative Side: The move is likely to escalate the conflict in Ukraine, leading to further human suffering and economic costs. The international community has condemned the deployment of North Korean troops and missiles, citing violations of U.N. Security Council resolutions. The situation is likely to have significant implications for the global balance of power, with the United States and its allies seeking to counter the growing influence of Russia and North Korea.