Ukraine’s Military Intelligence Chief Warns of North Korea’s Military Aid to Russia

Kyrylo Budanov, director of the General Intelligence Service of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense (GUR), has expressed concerns over the military aid provided by North Korea to Russia, stating that it poses the biggest threat to Ukraine.

Speaking at a conference organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation in Kiev, Budanov emphasized the significance of North Korea’s military aid to Russia, including large quantities of ammunition. He noted that this aid has caused substantial damage to Ukraine and affects the intensity of the battle.

Budanov’s comments came as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged to deepen ties with Russia during talks with visiting Russian Secretary General Sergei Shoigu. Ukraine has been closely monitoring arms shipments from North Korea to Russia and is feeling the impact on the war situation.

The Ukrainian military intelligence chief highlighted the critical nature of North Korea’s military aid, stating that it includes a large amount of artillery ammunition. He also noted that Russia has invested in its own weapons, including the development and increased production of the Iskander missile.

Budanov expressed concerns over the heavy use of Iskander-M guided bombs, which contain about half a ton of explosives and can be dropped from greater distances, allowing Russian aircraft to evade air defense systems.

To counter Russia’s constant attacks, Ukraine continues to develop homemade weapons and requires reinforcements from Western countries. Throughout the war, Western allies have been hesitant to extend aid to Ukraine, seeking to avoid direct conflict with Russia.

Key Points:

• North Korea’s military aid to Russia poses the biggest threat to Ukraine.
• The aid includes large quantities of ammunition, affecting the intensity of the battle.
• Ukraine is closely monitoring arms shipments from North Korea to Russia.
• Russia has invested in its own weapons, including the development of the Iskander missile.
• Ukraine requires reinforcements from Western countries to counter Russia’s attacks.