All articles tagged with #weapons trade
The U.S. announced sanctions on 10 individuals and entities in Iran and Venezuela linked to weapons trade, including Iranian drone sales to Venezuela and efforts to procure missile chemicals, amid heightened tensions and threats from President Trump against Iran and Venezuela.
The U.S. Treasury has imposed sanctions on Iranian and Venezuelan entities and individuals involved in the proliferation of weapons, including UAVs and missile components, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb Iran's military support to Venezuela and prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction.
France has become the world's second largest arms exporter, just ahead of Russia, with a 47% increase in arms exports between 2014-2018 and 2019-2023. This surge is attributed to France's pursuit of "strategic autonomy" and support for its arms industry. Meanwhile, Russia's arms exports have halved, partly due to China's ability to produce high-tech weapons independently. The war in Ukraine has led to a doubling of weapons imports to Europe, with Ukraine becoming the world's fourth largest arms importer. Despite efforts by NGOs to restrict arms sales, the impact has been limited, and Western countries continue to dominate global arms exports.
South Korea's military has stated that North Korea likely supplied various types of missiles, ammunition, and shells to Russia to support its war in Ukraine. The military suspects that short-range ballistic missiles, anti-tank missiles, and portable anti-air missiles were sent, along with rifles, rocket launchers, mortars, and shells. North Korea has been seeking cooperation with Russia and China amid tensions with the United States and domestic hardships. The alleged weapons shipments have been condemned by South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, as they violate U.N. Security Council resolutions. North Korea and Russia have denied the accusations.
Pope Francis expressed frustration with countries that initially provided weapons to Ukraine but are now considering backing out of their commitments, suggesting that they are "playing games" with the situation. While he did not take a stand on whether countries should continue sending weapons, the Pope emphasized the need to help Ukraine resolve the conflict and criticized the consequences of the arms industry. Several countries, including the United States, are facing internal pressure to halt or reduce arms aid to Ukraine. The Pope's comments come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy appeals for continued support amid doubts from some Republicans in the US Congress.
North Korea is turning to Russia to strengthen its weapons trade as it faces international sanctions. The two countries have been increasing their cooperation in recent years, with Russia providing military equipment and expertise to North Korea. This partnership allows North Korea to bypass restrictions imposed by the United Nations and other countries, enabling it to continue its weapons development and trade.