Reuters: Ukraine Claims North Korean Missile Unit Training in Russia
North Korea has reportedly deployed a missile unit to Russia as part of preparations to support Russian military operations against Ukraine, according to Reuters, citing Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR).
The Ukrainian intelligence agency claims that around 90 North Korean military personnel are currently undergoing training in Russia’s Voronezh region. According to the report, the unit could eventually be equipped with six missile launchers and 120 KN-23 and KN-24 short-range ballistic missiles.
Reuters also reported, citing the HUR, that Pyongyang recently delivered an additional batch of 40 KN-23 and KN-24 ballistic missiles to Russia and deployed more personnel to support the expanding military cooperation between the two countries.
The KN-23 and KN-24 are advanced North Korean ballistic missiles capable of carrying conventional warheads and are considered difficult to intercept due to their maneuverable flight paths.
The reported deployment has not been independently verified, and Russia and North Korea have not publicly confirmed the Ukrainian intelligence claims.
The reports come amid growing international concern over deepening military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. Western governments have previously accused North Korea of supplying Russia with artillery ammunition, rockets, and ballistic missiles for use in the war against Ukraine, allegations both countries have repeatedly denied.