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North Korea Supplies 40% of Russia’s Ammunition in War Against Ukraine, Spy Chief Says
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
North Korea is supplying Russia with up to 40% of the ammunition it uses in its war against Ukraine, according to Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, in an interview with Bloomberg on July 11.
Budanov revealed that in addition to ammunition, Pyongyang is delivering other weaponry to Moscow—including ballistic missiles and artillery systems. In return, Russia is providing North Korea with funds and technology, helping the regime break through its international isolation.
“Those are good weapons,” Budanov stated. “North Korea has huge stockpiles and production goes on around the clock.
Despite growing military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, Budanov expressed confidence that US support for Ukraine will continue in the near future. He also mentioned that additional air defense systems could be on their way from Washington.
Commenting on the US political landscape, Budanov said: “Trump’s position is consistent, one should not judge him by media characteristics. As head of a special service I know more things.”
He also stressed the importance of reaching a ceasefire as soon as possible — well before the end of 2025.
“Is it realistic to do so - yes. Is it difficult - no,” he said. “It takes at least three sides - Ukraine, Russia and the US. And we will get to this position.”
Earlier, Ukrainian intelligence revealed deployment of 120 long-range artillery systems from North Korea—including D‑74 howitzers, Type 63 MLRS, BM‑24, and Koksan 170 mm guns—to Russian forces, alongside millions of rounds sustaining front-line operations.
