Zelenskyy alleges Russia shared jet-drone technology with North Korea

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Sunday that he believes Russia has shared technology related to its jet-powered drones with North Korea. When asked by journalists if Moscow had provided this specific technology to its ally, Zelenskiy responded affirmatively, suggesting that the exchange is a reciprocal development following North Korea’s provision of weapons to Russia for use in the ongoing conflict.

The reported technological transfer comes as Russia has increased its use of jet-powered drones against Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have noted that these drones present a significant challenge, as the country currently lacks effective countermeasures against them, aside from the deployment of combat aircraft.

Military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang has deepened throughout the war. North Korea has previously supplied Russia with millions of artillery shells and ballistic missiles, which have been utilized in attacks against Ukrainian cities. Additionally, thousands of North Korean soldiers have been deployed to Russia to gain combat experience.

The growing partnership has raised concerns among South Korean and Western officials regarding the potential for North Korea to receive assistance in its own weapons development programs. These developments coincide with an intensification of Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, including a recent drone strike on the Pivnichnyi Bridge in Kyiv.

In response to Ukraine’s pledge to target Russian oil refineries, the Russian Ministry of Defence has warned that it will further increase strikes on military and industrial facilities. As these attacks continue, Ukraine’s air defense systems are facing mounting pressure.

Diplomatic tensions have also emerged between Kyiv and Seoul following a recent announcement by Zelenskiy at the United Nations General Assembly. The Ukrainian president stated that two North Korean prisoners of war, who had been captured while fighting for Russia, were transferred to South Korea.