The report documents the unlawful military cooperation between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Russian Federation. This cooperation includes the transfer of various military assets, such as artillery, ballistic missiles, and combat vehicles from North Korea to Russia, and the provision of air defence systems from Russia to North Korea. These transfers, conducted via sea, air, and rail, constitute violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions. These sea routes involve shipments from North Korean to Russian ports, often using smaller vessels and transshipment points to avoid detection. Air corridors make use of non-commercial flights at night to evade radar, connecting military bases in both countries. Lastly, rail networks provide a reliable means of transporting heavy military equipment, with dedicated trains operating year-round. These methods enable continuous military cooperation, bolstering Russia’s capabilities in Ukraine and providing North Korea with advanced technology and training.
The report also mentions the training of North Korean troops by Russian forces, with over 11,000 North Korean soldiers deployed to support Russia’s military operations in Ukraine since October 2024. Furthermore, the report details significant breaches of sanctions, including the supply of refined petroleum products by Russia to North Korea, far exceeding the UNSC-mandated cap, and the maintenance of prohibited correspondent banking relations. These financial transactions support North Korea’s military programs and the development of its ballistic missile capabilities. Collectively, these sections illustrate the depth of unlawful cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
The DPRK-Russia Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and frequent high-level exchanges indicates that the two countries intend to maintain this ongoing and intensifying cooperation. This treaty marks the significant cooperation between North Korea and Russia. This treaty has facilitated the unlawful transfer of military assets, including artillery, ballistic missiles, and air defence systems, in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. It has also enabled the deployment of North Korean troops to support Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.