Ukraine Strikes North Korean Artillery in Russia’s Kursk Region

Ukraine reported hitting three North Korean artillery guns in Kursk, underscoring increased North Korean support for Russia in its military efforts against Ukraine. The M-1978 Koksan howitzer, noted for its long range, is part of these reinforcements, alongside thousands of North Korean troops reportedly active in Russia. Recent evidence suggests enhanced military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, motivated by mutual defense interests.

Ukraine recently reported that its military successfully targeted three North Korean M-1978 howitzer artillery guns located in Russia’s Kursk region. This action highlights North Korea’s significant role in bolstering Russia’s military capabilities in its conflict with Ukraine. The Ukrainian military’s reconnaissance unit pinpointed the artillery’s position, which was concealed among trees, and effectively coordinated a counter-strike using rocket artillery.

The M-1978 Koksan is North Korea’s most advanced long-range artillery, boasting a 170mm gun with a range of approximately 60 kilometers. Initially designed to threaten Seoul, these howitzers are now being deployed by Russian forces to compensate for their artillery losses in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Ukraine also noted that around 12,000 North Korean soldiers are purportedly engaged in Russia, though neither government has officially confirmed this information.

In previous encounters, Ukraine has recorded drone strikes against North Korean artillery in areas such as Luhansk, marking a series of successful engagements against this specific type of self-propelled howitzer. Additionally, North Korean military presence and equipment have been identified in other parts of Russia, with claims of substantial weapons transfers made by North Korea to Russia in response to its artillery requirements.

The involvement of North Korean troops has seemingly shifted the balance in regions like Sudzha, where Ukrainian defenses have been breached, leading to territorial regains for Russia. The resurgence of North Korean military assets underscores the escalating cooperation between North Korea and Russia since their mutual defense treaty was established in June. Recent diplomatic engagements indicate that both nations are enhancing their military ties, especially in the context of North Korea’s troop contributions amidst ongoing conflicts.

The Ukrainian military’s engagement against North Korean-supplied artillery in Kursk illustrates the increasing military alliance between North Korea and Russia. The use of M-1978 howitzers signifies a tactical shift amid intensifying combat on the front lines, further emphasized by the deployment of North Korean soldiers. The ongoing cooperation between these two nations reinforces the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape, whereby military support flows from North Korea to assist Russian efforts in Ukraine.

Original Source: www.rfa.org