Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Sunday that he believes Russia has shared jet-drone technology with North Korea, a long-standing ally. In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its deployment of jet-powered drones against Ukrainian targets, a threat that Ukraine currently counters primarily through the use of combat aircraft.

Zelensky’s comments followed earlier reports that North Korea supplied Russia with millions of artillery shells at the onset of the conflict. Since then, North Korea has also developed ballistic missiles, which Moscow has reportedly used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.

When asked if Russia had transferred its latest jet-drone technology to North Korea, Zelensky responded affirmatively, saying, "Yes, of course." He added that while he was not certain about the sharing of ballistic missile technology, the assistance North Korea provided to Russia with missile supplies suggested cooperation on broader military technologies.

The use of jet drones represents a significant evolution in Russia’s tactics in the war, with these unmanned systems allowing for strikes without risking pilot lives. However, Ukraine's current defense infrastructure lacks dedicated countermeasures against such drones, leaving the country relying on more traditional aerial combat to intercept them.

The potential transfer of drone technology to North Korea raises concerns about the proliferation of advanced military capabilities among allied states and could have implications for regional security beyond the immediate conflict in Ukraine.