Andrii Cherniak reports Russia is deploying a North Korean missile unit to bolster its war effort against Ukraine
Andrii Cherniak of Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence reported that Russia is deploying a North Korean missile unit equipped with approximately 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers. The unit, which includes around 90 North Korean personnel, is expected to be stationed in Russia's western Voronezh region. This deployment marks a deepening military partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang, following the signing of a mutual defense pact in 2024. Russia is increasingly utilizing ballistic missiles because they are difficult to intercept without advanced systems like the U.S.-made Patriot. Ukraine currently faces a shortage of high-end air defenses, making these strikes particularly effective. Cherniak noted that a fresh batch of 40 North Korean KN-23 and KN-24 missiles has already been delivered to Russian forces. These missiles possess a greater range and larger payload than Russia's Iskander missiles, though they are less accurate. The deployment details will be finalized during high-level talks next month, as Russia continues to exert pressure on Ukraine's limited air defenses.