Russia trades missiles for North Korean troops in Ukraine war, claims South Korea

South Korea has alleged that Russia provided anti-aircraft missiles to North Korea in exchange for deploying more than 10,000 soldiers to support Moscow's war in Ukraine.

This claim was made by Shin Won-sik, South Korea's top security advisor, who revealed that the equipment was intended to bolster Pyongyang's vulnerable air defense system.

In an interview with SBS, Shin stated that North Korea also received various forms of economic aid and was working on satellite technology following a failed launch in May. Experts suggest North Korea is leveraging this arrangement to secure advanced military technology, including surveillance satellites and submarines, while also seeking security guarantees from Moscow.

This partnership appears to be part of a broader realignment in Pyongyang's foreign policy.

By supplying troops and potentially weapons, North Korea is strengthening its position within Russia's war economy, possibly bypassing its traditional ally and main trading partner, China. Analysts believe Russia may grant North Korea access to its vast natural resources, including oil and gas, as part of their cooperation.

The relationship between the two nations was formalized in June when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a strategic partnership treaty. The agreement mandates mutual military support in case of an attack and cooperation against Western sanctions. Putin described the treaty as a "breakthrough document."

North Korea has publicly endorsed Russia's actions in Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui recently visiting Moscow. She declared North Korea's unwavering support for Russia's "sacred struggle" and praised Putin's leadership.

Both North Korea and Russia face significant sanctions - Pyongyang for its nuclear weapons program and Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine. While Putin has deflected questions about North Korean troop deployments, North Korea claimed such actions are in line with international law, though it stopped short of confirming the deployment of soldiers.

The reported troop involvement has prompted a shift in South Korea’s stance. While Seoul has refrained from supplying lethal weapons to Ukraine, it recently hinted at reconsidering its policy in light of the evolving situation.