Russia is in the process of purchasing millions of rockets and artillery shells from North Korea for use on the battlefield in Ukraine, a US official tells CNN
The purchase indicates that the Russian military continues to suffer from severe supply shortages in Ukraine, due in part to export controls and sanctions, according to the official.The US expects Russia could try to buy more military equipment from North Korea going forward, the official added.The New York Times first reported on the purchase.
"We assess that things are not going well on that front for Russia, so the fact that they're reaching out to North Korea is a sign that they're having some challenges on the sustainment front."A sign Russia may be struggling to maintain supplies for Ukraine warThe availability of ammunition will prove to be one of the most critical factors in Russia's ability to sustain its war in Ukraine, US officials told CNN.