Ukraine acquired erratic North Korean rockets and is launching them at the Russians.

Ukraine acquired erratic North Korean rockets and is launching them at the Russians.

North Korean Rockets Used by Ukraine against Russian Forces

North Korean Rockets

Ukrainian forces have reportedly been using North Korean-made rockets against Russian troops, according to the Financial Times. This unexpected turn of events highlights the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

A Surprising Weapon Choice

The Financial Times revealed that Ukrainian soldiers manning multiple-launch rocket systems near Bakhmut showcased North Korean rockets to the outlet. These weapons, produced in the 1980s and ’90s, have proven to be unreliable, often misfiring or failing to explode.

“It’s very unreliable and does crazy things sometimes,” noted one Ukrainian soldier, reflecting the soldiers’ dislike for using these rockets. Despite their shortcomings, these North Korean weapons have found their way into the conflict, raising questions about their origin and acquisition.

Unconventional Allies

One striking aspect of this development is the connection between North Korea and Russia. While the two countries might be politically aligned, Ukrainian troops are employing weapons that were manufactured in North Korea against Russian forces.

In an uncommon demonstration of gratitude, Russian President Vladimir Putin recently thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for his nation’s “firm support” in the war. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu even visited Pyongyang to meet with Kim during the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War.

However, this relationship extends beyond diplomatic niceties. Over the past year, US intelligence officials have noted that North Korea has been supplying Russia with various weapons after international sanctions severed Russia’s traditional military supply lines. In exchange, Russia has reportedly been providing North Korea with food.

The Acquisition Mystery

The circumstances surrounding the acquisition of these North Korean rockets remain unclear. Ukrainian soldiers only mentioned that a “friendly” country “seized” the weapons from a ship, without providing further details. A Ukrainian defense official speculated that the weapons might have been taken directly from Russian troops.

According to Yuriy Sak, an adviser to Ukraine’s defense minister, Russia has been actively seeking different types of munitions from various nations, including North Korea and Iran. This suggests that Russia has been exploring alternative avenues to bolster its military capabilities.

In addition to North Korea, Russia has also received weapons from Iran, as confirmed by Western officials. Recent reports even indicate that China has been supplying military gear, such as drones and protective equipment, to Russia, taking advantage of a loophole to bypass Western sanctions.

A Multinational Arsenal

While the use of North Korean rockets by Ukraine is remarkable, it is essential to acknowledge the diverse sources of weapons that both sides of the conflict have relied upon. Ukraine has turned to a range of countries for military support, including those from its Soviet-era inventory and arms provided by Western allies such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain.

This multi-sourced arsenal demonstrates the complex nature of warfare in the 21st century, with nations exploiting various avenues to secure the necessary equipment for their armed forces.

In conclusion, the unexpected utilization of North Korean rockets by Ukrainian forces against Russian troops adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It highlights the intricate relationships between nations and the lengths to which they go to bolster their military capabilities. As the conflict evolves, it is crucial to closely monitor the dynamics of weapon sourcing and the impact it has on the outcome of the war.