The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports that Russia is acquiring ballistic missiles from North Korea and potentially Iran to challenge Ukraine's air defenses, which have difficulty intercepting this type of missile. While Ukraine has had a high success rate against Russian cruise missiles, it has only stopped a "handful" of ballistic missiles. The effectiveness of Russia's ballistic missile attacks seems to depend on the intensity of the assault. The US has confirmed that Russia has started using missiles from North Korea against Ukraine, and discussions with Iran for additional missiles are underway to target Ukrainian infrastructure more effectively.
The White House has reported that Russia is using ballistic missiles supplied by North Korea in its attacks on Ukraine and is negotiating with Iran to acquire short-range ballistic missiles. A North Korean missile was fired into Ukraine on December 30, 2022, and more were launched on January 2, 2023. In exchange for the missiles, North Korea may receive Russian military equipment and technology. The U.S. is concerned about the security implications for the Korean peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region and plans to impose sanctions on those facilitating the arms transfer, as well as address the issue at the UN. The situation underscores the urgency for Congress to pass an arms supply package for Ukraine.
U.S. intelligence reports that Russia has started using ballistic missiles supplied by North Korea in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, highlighting Russia's increasing reliance on support from countries like North Korea due to its isolation from international sanctions. The exact number of missiles and the full extent of military support from North Korea remain unclear, but the development marks a significant step in North Korea's involvement in the war and Russia's efforts to replenish its arsenal as the conflict nears its third year.
