A dormant North Korean port near the border with Russia has been reactivated again, suggesting an increase in arms trade to Russia, fueling an already fragile economy managed by Kim Jong Un. Satellite images show the Najin port has seen a steady flow of ships and shipping containers being loaded and unloaded from October to December.
The US accused North Korea of sending ammunition to Russia in early October, and further provided imagery showing the weapons later being delivered to a depot in the Russian town of Tikhoretsk for use in Ukraine. The trade flow of these munitions, which the US and South Korea claim included hundreds of thousands of artillery shells, is growing in importance as divisions in the US Congress and the European Union over military aid threaten Kyiv’s ability to repel Russia.
Analysts have confirmed significant and ongoing exchange of cargo between Najin, North Korea, and Dunay, Russia. North Korea has been banned from arms sales for about 15 years, and despite repeatedly rejecting accusations of supplying Russia, the satellite data analysis suggests otherwise.
The trade continuation may significantly impact the situation on the battlefield, with Russia able to keep up much higher pressure for longer on Ukrainian forces. As international sanctions and Covid protections ease for Russia and North Korea, they are likely to continue their trade, with both countries recognizing the utility and benefits of partnership.