The supply of weapons from North Korea has bolstered Russia’s position in Ukraine, enabling it to maintain its domestic arsenals, according to Germany’s leading military official during a visit to South Korea on Monday.

Chief of Defence General Carsten Breuer stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have sought assistance from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for weaponry if it were not beneficial.

Breuer emphasized that this situation not only enhances Russia’s capacity for aggression in Ukraine but also allows them to sustain their stockpiles effectively. Reports from Ukraine, the United States, and independent analysts indicate that Kim is aiding Russia in its conflict with Ukraine by providing rockets and missiles in exchange for economic and military support from Moscow.

Since September of last year, North Korea has reportedly sent over 16,500 containers of munitions and related materials to Russia, with more than 65 of those missiles being launched at Ukrainian targets, as noted by Robert Koepcke, U.S. deputy assistant secretary of state, in a recent speech.

Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied any direct arms transfers, which would breach United Nations sanctions.

When asked if he had urged South Korea to supply weapons to Ukraine, Breuer expressed agreement with Ukraine’s perspective that anti-aircraft systems, infantry fighting vehicles, and other armaments would be beneficial in the conflict, urging all nations to contribute as much as possible.

South Korea has provided non-lethal support but has indicated it will not send weapons unless Russia’s collaboration with North Korea crosses certain undefined thresholds.

German Ambassador to South Korea Georg Schmidt remarked that North Korea’s security partnership with Russia has direct consequences for regional security.

During his visit, Breuer also inspected two German warships that had docked in South Korea before continuing their journey through the South China Sea to Manila.