Western Components Found in North Korean Missiles Deployed by Russia

A recent analysis of missiles supplied by North Korea to Russia for attacks on Ukraine found components made by Western companies, according to Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha. In response, Sybiha called for tighter sanctions and export controls.

“Outrageous. Recent examination of a North Korean KN-23/24 missile shot down in Ukraine found numerous recently produced Western-made components. Putin and Kim still have access to them. We urge allies to respond strongly, tighten sanctions & export controls, boost our air shield,” wrote the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha on X.

Earlier reports indicated that Russian forces began deploying missiles of North Korean origin against Ukraine. Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin confirmed that a missile used in a Russian attack on Kharkiv on January 2, 2024, was made in DPRK. “As for North Korea, we have recently received the first evidence of the Russian army's use of missiles manufactured in that country. The results of a preliminary scientific and technical examination confirm that the missile fired on January 2 at the central part of Kharkiv was a short-range missile developed by North Korea,” Kostin said in a comment to Suspilne.