Russia Seeks North Korean Support to Enhance Military Strength: UK Statement to OSCE
Date: November 6, 2024
Source: UK News and Communications
Summary:
According to a recent statement to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the United Kingdom has evidence that Russia is turning to North Korea for military assistance to bolster its combat capabilities. The move highlights Moscow’s desperation as it faces setbacks in its invasion of Ukraine.
Key Details:
- The UK’s statement, delivered by its Permanent Representative to the OSCE, Ambassador Neil Bush, expresses “grave concern” over Russia’s attempts to acquire weapons from North Korea.
- Ambassador Bush presented intelligence that indicates Russia has approached North Korea for supplies of artillery shells and missiles.
- The UK believes that Russia’s military is struggling to replenish its supplies due to Western sanctions and the effectiveness of Ukrainian resistance.
- The statement also highlights that Russia has a long history of military cooperation with North Korea, including the acquisition of Scud missiles in the past.
Analysis:
- The UK’s disclosure suggests that Russia is facing a critical shortage of munitions and other military equipment.
- By turning to North Korea, Moscow is demonstrating its willingness to seek support from international pariahs to bolster its war effort.
- The move could further escalate tensions between Russia and Western powers, which have already imposed severe sanctions on both Russia and North Korea.
- The potential implications of Russia acquiring North Korean weapons could be significant, as North Korea is known to possess a range of advanced weaponry, including nuclear-capable missiles.
International Reactions:
- The US State Department condemned Russia’s approach to North Korea, calling it a “dangerous escalation” in the conflict in Ukraine.
- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed concern over the potential for Russia to acquire weapons of mass destruction from North Korea.
- Japan and South Korea, which have been at odds with North Korea over its nuclear program, also expressed concern about the developments.
Outlook:
The revelation of Russia’s dealings with North Korea has heightened concerns about the potential for further escalation in the Ukraine conflict. It remains to be seen how the international community will respond to this development and what steps will be taken to prevent Russia from acquiring weapons from North Korea.
Russia turns to Pyongyang to bolster its combat capabilities: UK statement to the OSCE
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