Tianran Xu for 38 North: ''North Korea’s Lethal Aid to Russia: Current State and Outlook"

In his 38 North article, ONN’s Tianran Xu unpacks North Korea’s growing military support for Russia in Ukraine, and what Pyongyang stands to gain from this high-risk alliance.

ONN Senior Analyst Tianran Xu has published a detailed analysis in 38 North, the flagship publication of the Stimson Center. His article, “North Korea’s Lethal Aid to Russia: Current State and Outlook,” explores the evolving military partnership between Pyongyang and Moscow with a focus on the types of weapons supplied, the strategic motivations behind the exchange and the implications for the war in Ukraine and regional security in Northeast Asia.

The article highlights how North Korea’s ammunition and advanced weaponry are not only bolstering Russia’s military efforts but also serving as real-time testing grounds for Pyongyang’s military systems. In return, Russia appears to be reciprocating with energy, technology and possibly co-production deals.