North Korean Missile Troops Reportedly Sent to Russia to Support Ukraine War

Ukrainian military intelligence official Andrii Cherniak says a North Korean missile unit, roughly 90 personnel, has begun setting up inside Russia’s Voronezh region as part of the 112th Missile Brigade. Officials expect the unit to eventually receive around 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers, with final details to be settled at high-level talks next month.

A Growing Threat to Ukraine’s Air Defenses

Pyongyang has reportedly already sent a fresh batch of 40 KN-23 and KN-24 missiles. These weapons carry heavier payloads than Russia’s Iskander system but are less accurate, and have been tied to strikes with high civilian casualties. Analyst Rob Lee noted that any rise in ballistic missile numbers adds pressure on Ukraine’s already stretched defenses, especially heading into winter.

Deepening Russia-North Korea Military Ties

The move follows North Korea’s earlier troop deployments and ammunition support since 2022, alongside a 2024 mutual defense pact between the two nations.