Russia has been forced to buy military equipment from North Korea as sanctions hit Moscow’s ability to supply its military.
Russia has bought millions of artillery shells and missiles from Pyongyang. A US official said Russia will be forced to buy additional North Korean weapons as the war continues.
Meanwhile, last week, Moscow reportedly received its first order of new Iranian drones.
Iran and North Korea, both targets of significant Western sanctions, have sought to deepen ties with Russia since President Vladimir Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine in February.
Kim Jong-un’s regime has blamed the US for the conflict and accused the West of pursuing a “hegemonic policy” that justifies Russia’s use of force.
Last month, North Korea recognized the independence of two regions in eastern Ukraine – the People’s Republics of Donetsk and Luhansk – and pledged to deepen “friendship” with Moscow.
Russia’s Vladimir Putin said the two countries would expand their “comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations”.
