North Korea's Damaged Warship Mysteriously Moves to Russian Border: Is Moscow Helping?

2025-06-09 06:00:56.279

A new North Korean warship, damaged during a botched launch, has been moved to a port near the Russian border. This move has led analysts to believe that Russia might be involved in repairing the vessel. Satellite images show the 5,000-ton destroyer in a drydock at Rajin port, part of North Korea's Rason special economic zone bordering Russia. While Rajin has repair facilities, its proximity to Russia suggests a potential deepening of military ties. A report from the Modern War Institute at West Point highlights Rason's role in North Korea-Russia cooperation, including arms shipments to Russia. The warship was damaged on May 21 during its launch. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered its repair by late June, calling it a matter of national honor. State media reported a 7-10 day repair time at Rajin. The extent of the damage is debated. Retired South Korean Admiral Kim Duk-ki suggests potential damage to sonar and depth finders, requiring foreign assistance. However, South Korean lawmaker Yu Yong-weon believes the damage is less significant, with water flooding being the main issue. Regardless, the repair process will involve purging seawater and drying the ship. While Russian assistance is possible, verifying its extent is difficult. North Korea has reportedly sent munitions to Russia, while receiving weapons technologies and refined oil in return.