Zelensky Claims Russia Used North Korean Missiles in Kyiv Attack
Ukraine’s president says Russia launched North Korean missiles, causing severe damage to Kyiv’s energy infrastructure.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed on Saturday that Russia used North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles to attack energy facilities around Kyiv, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Zelensky stated that 36 missiles were launched in the attack, with only four intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses, alongside 149 enemy drones.
Ukraine Seeks Support Amid Escalation
Zelensky emphasized that the attack was further proof of the need for stronger global sanctions against those providing support for destructive actions. He noted Ukraine has forensic evidence from the impact sites to support its claims and that experts are continuing their investigations. However, he did not specify how many of the 36 missiles were North Korean weapons.
Zelensky also placed some of the blame on a “significant shortage of interceptors” for Ukraine’s U.S.-supplied Patriot missile batteries. He called for accelerated supplies to enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend life, particularly as negotiations with international partners are set to intensify.
Missile Details and Implications
The KN-23 missile, known as the Hwasong-11A in North Korea, is a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) with solid fuel, making it easier to transport and launch quickly. It is similar to Russia’s Iskander SRBM, which is highly maneuverable and can carry various warheads, including potential nuclear payloads.
Ukraine’s air defenses were initially effective against such missiles, but intercepts have declined over the past year, possibly due to improved missile technology and increased experience in penetrating Ukrainian airspace. The Ukrainian defense ministry first warned about the use of North Korean weapons in April, highlighting their difficulty for air defense systems.
Damage Assessment and Response
Zelensky held an emergency conference after the attack to assess damage to Kyiv’s supply lines and energy infrastructure. Officials reported severe damage to energy facilities, including the transmission system that carries electricity to the city from two nuclear power plants. Bridges, water lines, and heating services were also damaged, with at least two fatalities and several dozen injuries reported.
The Russian Defense Ministry acknowledged the attack, claiming its forces targeted only “military-industrial facilities,” including Ukrainian missile factories. Russia stated the bridges damaged were being used by the Ukrainian military to transport equipment to the front lines.
Source: Breitbart
