Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Russia used a North Korean ballistic missile in a recent strike on the town of Radushne, citing preliminary findings while stressing that further forensic examinations are underway.
He also renewed calls for Ukraine’s allies to accelerate deliveries of advanced air defense systems to counter continued missile attacks.
Preliminary Assessment Points to North Korean Missile
In a statement, Zelenskyy said early evidence indicates that the missile used in the attack on Radushne originated from North Korea, although he acknowledged that investigators are continuing to examine the weapon and verify its origin.
If confirmed, the strike would represent another alleged instance of military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, an issue that has drawn increasing international attention in recent years.
Ukrainian Leader Condemns Moscow-Pyongyang Cooperation
Zelenskyy strongly criticized what he described as an alliance between Russia and North Korea, accusing both governments of collaborating to support Russia’s military campaign against Ukraine.
He alleged that the partnership extends beyond missile supplies to include North Korean military involvement alongside Russian forces, arguing that the cooperation contributes directly to attacks on Ukrainian civilians.
Missile Incident Near Poland Draws International Attention
The Ukrainian president also referred to reports that a Russian missile entered Polish territory before exploding in a field near the city of Lublin.
According to Zelenskyy, the incident prompted statements of concern and condemnation from several European governments, highlighting the potential regional implications of the ongoing conflict.
The reported missile incident has not been independently verified in the context of Zelenskyy’s remarks.
Ukraine Calls for More Air Defense Systems
While welcoming international expressions of solidarity, Zelenskyy argued that practical military assistance remains more important than public condemnation.
He said Ukraine’s immediate priority is securing additional interceptor missiles and strengthening its air defense network to better protect civilians and critical infrastructure from continued aerial attacks.
Patriots, NASAMS, IRIS-T Among Requested Systems
Zelenskyy specifically appealed for additional interceptor missiles for the Patriot air defense system, while also highlighting the need for continued support for NASAMS, IRIS-T, HAWK, and other air defense platforms already deployed by Ukraine.
He urged Ukraine’s international partners—particularly the United States and European allies—to accelerate military assistance, saying timely deliveries of defensive systems could help save civilian lives as Russia’s missile campaign continues.
