North Korean military aid to Russia worsens battlefield situation: Ukraine spy chief

Ukraine's Budanov emphasises North Korean artillery ammunition pose major challenge for Ukrainian forces.

Ukraine's intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov has raised alarms about the increasing military aid Russia is receiving from North Korea, describing it as a major challenge for Ukrainian forces.

Speaking at the 'Ukraine. Year 2024' conference in Kyiv on September 14, Budanov emphasized that North Korean artillery ammunition deliveries are significantly intensifying the conflict on the frontlines.

"Our biggest problem from all these allies of Russia is North Korea," Budanov stated. "The volume of military products they supply directly affects the intensity of the fighting."

The remarks come amid growing concerns over the deepening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, following North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s recent pledge to strengthen relations with Russia.

Ukraine, along with the US and other nations, has been closely monitoring the arms transfers from North Korea to Russia.

According to Budanov, the scale of artillery ammunition supplied by Pyongyang is crucial for Russia's military efforts, further fueling hostilities.

“They are supplying massive amounts of artillery ammunition, and it's clear this is having a direct impact on the battlefield,” Budanov said.

The intelligence chief also highlighted Russia's enhanced production of guided bombs, which has become another significant challenge for Ukrainian forces.

"The increased use of these weapons poses a huge problem for the frontline," Budanov noted.

Russia's reliance on North Korean arms is part of a broader strategy, with Moscow seeking to replenish its dwindling supplies as the war drags on.

Analysts suggest that in exchange for military aid, North Korea is likely receiving economic assistance and other forms of military support from Russia, a claim echoed by international observers.

Ukraine’s forces, now over 30 months into the full-scale invasion, are spread thin as they try to fend off Russian advances, particularly in the eastern parts of the country.

Additionally, Ukrainian troops have been conducting operations in Russia's western Kursk region, adding further strain to their efforts.

Budanov also pointed to Russia's production of Iskander-type missiles, which has resulted in the "massive use" of these weapons against Ukrainian targets.

This year's strikes on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure have caused extensive damage, particularly to the country’s power grid, leading to frequent outages.

As winter approaches, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has renewed calls for air defense support from Ukraine’s allies to protect against these attacks.

Looking ahead, Budanov shared insights into Russia’s internal military planning, suggesting that Moscow could face a recruitment crisis by mid-2025.

According to Budanov, Russia will soon have to make a critical decision: either declare a mass mobilization or scale back the intensity of its military operations. "During the summer of 2025, they will face a dilemma that could be crucial to their war effort," he warned.

The ongoing war, exacerbated by external military aid to Russia, continues to present significant obstacles for Ukraine. With North Korea’s growing involvement, the conflict is expected to remain intense in the months ahead.