Russia Trades Oil and Missiles for North Korean Troops and Weapons

Satellite imagery reveals Russia supplied North Korea with over a million barrels of oil and military technology in exchange for troops and artillery for its war in Ukraine.

Satellite images analyzed by the Open Source Centre show Russia supplied North Korea with over one million barrels of oil since March, violating UN sanctions limiting Pyongyang to 500,000 barrels annually.
In return, North Korea sent more than 10,000 troops and over 13,000 containers of artillery and missiles to support Russia's war effort in Ukraine, with some troops reportedly already engaged in combat.
Russia also provided North Korea with anti-air missiles, air defense equipment, and assistance in satellite technology, bolstering Pyongyang's military capabilities.
The oil shipments and military cooperation highlight the deepening partnership between Russia and North Korea, raising concerns over potential transfers of advanced nuclear or missile technology.
The UN sanctions-monitoring panel was disbanded in March after a Russian veto, further enabling these illicit exchanges, which experts warn could destabilize global security.