Russia Plans On Buying Millions Of Artillery Shells From North Korea: REPORT

Russia is reportedly planning to purchase millions of artillery rounds from North Korea, an event some analysts take as a sign Western sanctions have crippled the Russian war effort, according to The New York Times.

Recently declassified American intelligence documents show that Russia is in the process of obtaining short-range rockets and artillery shells from North Korea and may complete additional transfers of North Korean military hardware in the future, the NYT reported. Officials said that Western sanctions and export controls had succeeded in hindering Russia’s ability to procure defense equipment, forcing the Kremlin to look to North Korea to replenish munitions stocks.

“We assess that things are not going well on that front for Russia,” Pentagon spokesperson Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said a briefing Tuesday, referring to Russia’s sustainment capabilities, The Associated Press reported.

The intelligence does not specify the exact weaponry or munitions included in the sale, or when it is supposed to take place, the NYT reported. While Western sanctions have not crippled Russia’s economy yet, mostly due to soaring global energy prices and increased oil and gas exports to Asia, Russia has seen its ability to purchase weaponry and advanced electronics components significantly diminished.