Satellite Images Reveal Oil Transfers from Russia to North Korea

Satellite Images Reveal Oil Transfers from Russia to North Korea

According to satellite imagery analysis conducted by the Open Source Centre, a UK-based non-profit research group, Russia has supplied North Korea with over a million barrels of oil since March 2024. Experts and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy state that this oil is payment for North Korea’s weapons and troops sent to Moscow to support its war effort in Ukraine.

Violating UN Sanctions

These oil transfers violate UN sanctions, which prohibit countries from selling oil to North Korea except in small quantities. Sanctions were imposed to stifle the North Korean economy and prevent it from developing nuclear weapons. The satellite images show over a dozen North Korean oil tankers arriving at a Russian oil terminal 43 times in the past eight months.

Fueling North Korea’s Military

North Korea is the only country prohibited from buying oil on the open market. It is allocated only 500,000 barrels annually by the UN, which is less than its consumption needs. Therefore, it has relied on illicit purchases from criminal networks to make up the difference.

Challenges in Monitoring

Monitoring sanctions violations has become more difficult since Russia disbanded the UN panel responsible for tracking such violations in March 2024. Former panel members allege that evidence of oil transfers had emerged prior to the panel’s disbandment.

Russia’s Motivations

The oil transfers from Russia to North Korea are seen as a consequence of growing ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. Russia’s need for troops and weapons has made it more cooperative with North Korea, which is willing to provide these resources in exchange for oil.

Concerns about North Korea’s Gains

As North Korea provides increasing support to Russia, concerns are mounting about what Pyongyang may gain in return. Experts fear that Moscow may provide North Korea with technology to enhance its spy satellites and ballistic missiles. South Korea has expressed concern about this possibility.

Implications of Russia-North Korea Cooperation

The cooperation between Russia and North Korea is seen as a dangerous trend. It suggests that autocratic regimes are disregarding international norms and working together to achieve their objectives. This may have serious consequences for global security and stability.