North Korea is the largest supplier of weapons to Russia, and without North Korea's assistance, the situation for Moscow would be catastrophic.
This information comes from Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense, in an interview with the Financial Times.
Commenting on the production of weapons in Russia, Budanov stated that Russia is spending more on weapons and ammunition than it can produce while struggling with quality control. He explained that this is why Russia is seeking weapons from other countries.
According to Budanov, North Korea is the biggest supplier of weapons to the Russian army.
"They really handed over a significant amount of artillery ammunition. This allowed Russia to breathe a little," he said, adding that without North Korea's help, the situation would be catastrophic.
The head of the Main Intelligence Directorate also noted that Russia would prefer not to rely on external assistance. Budanov stated that "it has always been considered beneath them, it is demeaning."
As the intelligence chief highlighted, another problem facing Russia is manpower. Moscow is losing as many or even more troops than it can recruit.
