New U.S. Sanctions Against Two Russian Citizens and Three Companies for Military Weapons Transfers Between Russia and North Korea

On Thursday, May 17, the United States announced sanctions against two Russian citizens and three companies due to their involvement in military weapons transfers between Russia and North Korea, including ballistic missiles used in the Ukraine war. The U.S. Treasury Department stated that these new sanctions were imposed by the Treasury and State Departments to disrupt and prevent military weapons transfers between the two countries. Brian Nelson, the U.S. Treasury's Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, stated that these sanctions reflect the United States' commitment to countering the extensive cooperation between North Korea and Russia. He added that the U.S. will continue its efforts to hold accountable those facilitating the transfer of weapons and other items for Russia's use in the Ukraine war. The statement noted that Russia and North Korea increased their military cooperation last year, with Pyongyang providing ballistic missiles and munitions to Russia. Meanwhile, it was reported that North Korea sought military assistance from Russia in exchange for these weapons. These new sanctions were announced as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed on Thursday to expand their 'strategic partnership,' criticize the United States, and support North Korea. According to Matthew Miller, a spokesman for the U.S. State Department, Russia has previously used over 40 ballistic missiles produced by North Korea and other weapons against Ukraine, which is considered a violation of United Nations resolutions. He described the expanding relations between North Korea and Russia as a comprehensive threat to global order and security, urging the international community to join efforts to counter this trend. The Treasury Department's statement indicated that the individuals and companies targeted by the sanctions used front companies to move military equipment to support Russia's war in Ukraine and sought to evade sanctions. The imposed sanctions block all assets and interests of these individuals and companies in the United States. The Russian Embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters.