Russia, North Korea 'actively advancing' in arms deal negotiations: US

Washington [US]: Russia and North Korea are "actively advancing" their talks regarding a potential arms deal that would provide significant ammunition for various weapons systems, including artillery. This is the latest sign that the Kremlin is desperate to acquire more supplies for its faltering invasion of Ukraine, CNN reported citing a recently released US intelligence.

The news of the probable deal has emerged despite North Korea's public denials.

The Biden government stated on Wednesday that they are still concerned that the two pariah states are engaged in arms negotiations and that, following Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu's visit to North Korea last month, a second delegation of Russian officials have arrived in Pyongyang for additional talks on a potential deal, as reported by CNN.

In addition to the second delegation, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have written to one other "pledging to increase their bilateral cooperation," according to John Kirby, the strategic communications coordinator for the National Security Council.

The public disclosure of the new intelligence is the latest example of how the Biden administration intends to continue publicizing Russia's efforts to evade Western sanctions and source weapons for its war, as well as putting North Korea on notice that the US is closely monitoring these efforts. It also represents the most thorough proof to date of Russia's outreach to North Korea in support of its invasion of Ukraine, the report claimed.

(ANI)