Evidence Suggests North Korean Missiles Used in Kharkiv Attack
The Kharkiv region prosecutor's office has revealed evidence of North Korean missiles being used by Russia in an attack on Ukraine.
Cameron Jordan
- 2024-01-06
- Updated 10:39 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - In a concerning development, the Kharkiv region prosecutor's office in Ukraine has disclosed evidence indicating that Russia utilized missiles supplied by North Korea in an assault on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on January 2. This marks the first reported instance of North Korean missiles being employed by Russia amid its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. A senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the use of these foreign missiles, intensifying international scrutiny over the incident.
Discernible Differences in Missiles
According to Dmytro Chubenko, a spokesperson for the prosecutor's office, there are notable differences between the missiles used in the recent attack and the standard Russian Iskander missiles. Forensic analysis has shown variations in physical characteristics, such as a larger diameter, a different nozzle design, and variations in internal electrical windings and rear components. These discrepancies led to the identification of the projectile as potentially being of North Korean origin, although Chubenko did not provide a specific model name for the missile.
Humanitarian Impact and U.N. Resolutions
The attack on Kharkiv tragically resulted in two civilian deaths and inflicted injuries upon more than 60 individuals. The revelation about North Korean missiles being involved comes in the wake of Pyongyang being under a United Nations arms embargo since 2006, following its first nuclear bomb test. Moreover, various U.N. Security Council resolutions, which have historically been supported by Russia, explicitly prohibit any trade of weapons or military equipment with North Korea, raising questions about the possible infringement of international sanctions.
In conclusion, the Kharkiv prosecutor's office's allegations, if verified, could signify a breach of U.N. sanctions and contribute to the geopolitical complexities surrounding the conflict in Ukraine. As investigations continue, the international community watches closely for any developments that may impact diplomatic relations and the course of the conflict.
