Russia continues to amass weaponry for a potential attack on Ukraine. Moscow has already received dozens of ballistic missiles and launchers from North Korea, reported The Wall Street Journal, citing sources. Meanwhile, the Kremlin is also establishing the supply of lethal devices from Iran.
Russian forces have already deployed at least one of the ballistic missiles acquired from North Korea during the attack on Ukraine on December 30. According to intelligence data reported by White House National Security Council Coordinator John Kirby, the missile landed in an open field in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The range of these ballistic missiles is 900 kilometers.
In spring, the Russians plan to acquire short-range ballistic missiles from Iran, say American journalists. Russia’s intentions are causing “deep concern” in the administration of US President Joe Biden.
“The United States is concerned that Russian negotiations to acquire close-range ballistic missiles from Iran are actively advancing,” said one US official.
However, American officials do not believe the missile purchase agreement has been finalized. Moscow’s desire to acquire Iranian missiles became evident in mid-December when a Russian delegation visited an Iranian test site to observe trials conducted by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force, including the short-range Ababil missiles.
At the end of November, Iran announced that it had finalized an agreement with Russia on the supply of Su-35 fighter jets, Mi-28 attack helicopters, and Russian-made Yak-130 combat training aircraft.
Cover: KCNA VIA KNS / AFP
