Ukraine’s Intelligence Chief names three countries with experience in large-scale modern warfare
Photo: Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov (Getty Images)
Only three countries in the world can boast experience in conducting modern warfare on a broad front using almost all available means. Among them are Ukraine, Russia, and North Korea, which is currently actively practicing its combat skills, Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov says in an interview with The Japan Times.
"There are currently only three countries in the world with the experience of waging a modern war on a very long front line using virtually all available conventional means - these are Ukraine, Russia, and North Korea," Budanov emphasized.
Ukraine’s Intelligence Chief noted that Russia generously finances the participation of North Korean troops in the war against Ukraine.
"The Kremlin pays for all military equipment and troops. This is tens of billions of dollars’ worth, and for the economy of North Korea, one of the most isolated in the world, this is very serious money," said Budanov.
Ukraine’s Intelligence Chief also explained that this partnership is not limited to the war in Ukraine and has a much broader geopolitical dimension.
"We have consistently emphasized that the cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang does not only pose a threat to Ukraine," Budanov added.
Moscow strengthens its arsenal through North Korea
According to Budanov, Pyongyang plans to send military engineering units totaling about 6,000 personnel to Russia in the coming months. Their tasks will include demining and restoration work in the Kursk region.
North Korea’s plans also include transferring 50 to 100 units of North Korean equipment, including main battle tanks M2010 (Cheonma-D) and BTR-80 armored personnel carriers.
In total, North Korea provides about 40% of the Russian army’s needs for 122mm and 152mm ammunition. Production is carried out around the clock. In addition, Moscow has received from Pyongyang hundreds of artillery systems, MLRS, and missiles.
