The United States has announced new sanctions targeting eleven individuals and eight entities for their role in supporting the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and its backing of Russia. The sanctions, which focus on actions that enable the DPRK’s military activities, including its weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ballistic missile programs, are part of the U.S. government’s ongoing efforts to address North Korea's destabilizing actions and its growing ties with Russia, according to several official statements issued on Monday (Washington time).
The latest sanctions come after the DPRK’s provocative military tests. On October 31, 2024, North Korea conducted an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test—the first since December 2023—followed by the launch of seven short-range missiles on November 5, 2024. These actions have heightened tensions in the region and contributed to the increasing volatility of global security. According to U.S. officials, North Korea's growing military posturing and provocative missile tests have undermined peace and stability in the region.
Further complicating the situation, North Korea has been sending soldiers to Russia, where they are reportedly integrated with Russian forces. The DPRK has also provided military equipment, munitions, and ballistic missiles to Russia in support of its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. In return, Russia is allegedly assisting the DPRK in evading international sanctions, especially those targeting North Korea's illegal WMD programs.
As part of the new sanctions, the U.S. has designated several entities linked to the DPRK’s unlawful missile and weapons programs. Notably, the Second Academy of Natural Sciences Foreign Affairs Bureau (SANS FAB) has been sanctioned for facilitating procurement efforts supporting North Korea’s defense and missile programs. SANS FAB, working alongside representatives in China and Russia, has played a significant role in supplying materials crucial for the DPRK's missile development.
Rim Ryong Nam and Kim Yon Hui, two DPRK nationals involved in procuring materials like aluminum powder—vital for missile propulsion—have also been sanctioned. The couple has allegedly engaged in multiple attempts to procure materials for North Korea’s ballistic missile program since at least 2018.
In response to these developments, the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union have issued a joint statement condemning the DPRK-Russia military cooperation. They expressed concern over the DPRK’s continued support for Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, including the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia and the provision of military materials to aid the invasion.
The statement underscores the growing international unity in opposing the DPRK’s involvement in the war and its illegal weapons programs. The foreign ministers called on North Korea to cease its support for Russia’s war and urged Russia to end its military cooperation with the DPRK. They reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and vowed to continue taking coordinated actions, including further sanctions, to counter the DPRK-Russia alliance.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan Al Jubair
