-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
Russia has utilized approximately 60 North Korean-made ballistic missiles against Ukraine since the start of its full-scale invasion, according to a statement by Andrii Cherniak, a representative of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (HUR), during an interview with Radio Svoboda.
The missiles, known as KN-23, were developed using outdated technology, leading to limited accuracy. Despite this, they continue to pose a significant threat, Cherniak emphasized. He further noted that in addition to missiles, Russia has received millions of artillery shells and other military supplies from North Korea.
“We consistently observe the transfer of cargo, including containers that likely carry artillery shells produced or stockpiled by North Korea. These munitions represent a substantial danger to Ukraine,” Cherniak stated.
The deployment of KN-23 missiles, a North Korean adaptation of the Russian Iskander system, follows the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un earlier this year. The agreement includes mutual support clauses in the event of external aggression.
Reports suggest that since August 2023, North Korea has supplied Russia with significant quantities of military equipment, including over eight million artillery shells, around 100 Hwasong-11 missiles, and anti-tank weapons.
The use of KN-23 missiles in Ukraine was first documented in January 2024, following a missile strike on Kharkiv. Ukrainian authorities identified fragments consistent with North Korean production. In March, Kharkiv prosecutors confirmed at least one instance of a Hwasong-11 missile being deployed in the region.
