Ukraine Strikes North Korean Artillery in Russia’s Kursk Region

Ukraine has reported striking three North Korean-supplied artillery guns in Kursk, indicating significant military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. The M-1978 howitzers, utilized by Russian armed forces, highlight North Korea’s involvement in offsetting Russia’s artillery losses amid the ongoing conflict. The situation has escalated with North Korean troop deployments and substantial weapon supply shipments to Russia, further complicating the regional dynamics.

The Ukrainian military reported a significant development, revealing the successful targeting of three M-1978 Koksan artillery guns, supplied by North Korea to Russia, in the Kursk region. The attack, coordinated by an aerial reconnaissance unit from the 14th Separate Drone Regiment, indicates the deepening involvement of North Korea in supporting Russian military efforts against Ukraine. The M-1978 howitzers, which possess a range of up to 60 kilometers, were identified and destroyed while concealed among trees.

Initially designed for potential strikes towards Seoul, the Koksan artillery systems have now been repurposed by Russian forces to mitigate their artillery losses in the war against Ukraine. Moreover, it has been estimated that approximately 12,000 North Korean troops are currently in Russia, aiding in military operations, a fact that remains unacknowledged by both Pyongyang and Moscow. Evidence continues to grow regarding North Korea’s provision of military supplies to Russia as a means to bolster their diminishing artillery capabilities.

In an earlier incident in February, Ukraine had reported success in striking a North Korean self-propelled howitzer in the Luhansk region, marking a rare event since the onset of the conflict in 2022. Furthermore, military formations equipped with North Korean artillery were detected in Russia’s Tyumen region late last year, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between the two nations.

South Korea recently indicated that North Korea sent an approximate total of 20,000 containers of weaponry to Russia, significantly increasing their military support amidst the ongoing conflict. Reports also suggest a recent surge in North Korean troop deployments, as evidenced by Ukrainian officials citing a strategic shift in Russia’s operations, which contributed to the recapture of Sudzha, Ukraine’s last stronghold in Kursk.

The close relationship between North Korea and Russia has strengthened since the mutual defense treaty signed in June. Last week, a Russian delegation met with North Korean officials to discuss defense matters, particularly focusing on North Korea’s military involvement in Russia, coinciding with complex regional tensions and calls for ceasefire initiatives proposed by the United States.

In conclusion, Ukraine’s military successfully targeted North Korean artillery systems, demonstrating the extent of North Korea’s military support for Russia. This involvement includes the reported presence of North Korean troops and a significant supply of weaponry. The ongoing collaboration between North Korea and Russia illustrates their unified front against Ukraine, underlining the complexities of the conflict and the increasing risks involved for regional stability.

Original Source: www.rfa.org