Russia and North Korea are “actively moving forward” in their talks on a potential arms deal that would provide significant ammunition for different types of weapons systems, including artillery, in the latest indication that the Kremlin is desperate for more material. for its failed invasion of Ukraine, according to US intelligence.
News of the potential deal comes despite North Korea’s public assertions to the contrary.
The administration of US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday (30) that it remains concerned that the two rogue states are in the midst of arms talks and that, following the trip of Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to North Korea last month, a second delegation of Russian officials visited Pyongyang for follow-up discussions on a potential deal.
In addition to the second delegation, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un exchanged letters “committing to increase their bilateral cooperation,” according to John Kirby, coordinator of strategic communications at the National Security Council. North American.
“We remain concerned that North Korea continues to consider providing support to Russia’s military forces in Ukraine and we have new information that we can share today that the arms talks between Russia and North Korea are actively moving forward,” said Kirby.
“Following these negotiations, the high-level discussion could continue in the coming months.”
Meanwhile, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US representative to the United Nations, accused Russia and North Korea of negotiating arms deals. Greenfield called it “disgraceful” and a violation of Security Council resolutions passed by Russia.
The public release of the new information is the latest example of how the Biden administration plans to continue publicizing Russia’s efforts to evade Western sanctions and obtain weapons for its war, as well as warning North Korea that the US is monitoring these efforts closely.
It is also the most detailed evidence provided in recent months of Russia reaching out to North Korea to help fuel its invasion of Ukraine.
“Under these potential deals, Russia would receive significant quantities and various types of munitions from North Korea, which the Russian military plans to use in Ukraine. These potential deals could also include the supply of raw materials that would help Russia’s defense industrial base,” Kirby said, pledging that the US would take direct steps to sanction any entities involved in a potential deal and urged Pyongyang to cease talks.
Earlier this month, the US Treasury sanctioned a sanctions evasion network aimed at supporting arms deals between Russia and North Korea.
Kirby also said Russia’s attempts to acquire weapons in places like Iran and North Korea were a clear sign of Moscow’s distress.
“There’s no other way to look at it than through despair and weakness, frankly,” he said.
Late last year, Pyongyang delivered infantry rockets and missiles to the private military company Wagner for its troops in Ukraine, and Western officials said Iran had supplied Russia with weapons for use in Ukraine.
Iran and North Korea have denied these allegations.
See also – Russia rejects allegations of mercenary death
Source: CNN Brasil
Bruce Belcher is a seasoned author with over 5 years of experience in world news. He writes for online news websites and provides in-depth analysis on the world stock market. Bruce is known for his insightful perspectives and commitment to keeping the public informed.
