Ukraine believes Russia shared jet-drone technology with North Korea, says Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed belief that Russia may have shared jet-drone technology with North Korea, according to reports on Sunday. In the ongoing conflict, Russia has ramped up the deployment of jet-drones against Ukraine, leaving the latter with limited countermeasures except for employing combat aircraft. Prior to the war, North Korea contributed millions of artillery shells to Russia, continuing to provide Moscow with ballistic missiles for attacks on Ukrainian cities.

Addressing journalists about the alleged technology transfer, Zelensky confirmed, "Yes, of course," adding that he was uncertain about ballistic and other related technologies. It was further mentioned that North Korea provided assistance with missiles to bolster Russia's military capabilities. South Korea and various Western nations have previously raised concerns regarding potential weapon development support from Moscow to Pyongyang in exchange for its role in the Ukraine war.

Recent developments include South Korea and Ukraine's diplomatic tensions, stemming from Zelensky's announcement at the United Nations General Assembly that Ukraine had transferred two North Korean prisoners of war, captured while fighting for Russia, to South Korea. Seoul has threatened unspecified measures against Ukraine unless Kyiv acknowledges a confidentiality agreement related to the prisoner transfer and issues an apology.

Zelensky, however, stated that North Korea had requested the transfer of the two soldiers, considering them as their citizens per their constitution, and consequently granted their release.