Kim’s 'Iskander copy' returns: Is Putin testing a deadlier batch for a bigger Ukraine war offensive?

Russia has reportedly resumed using North Korea’s KN-23 ballistic missiles against Ukraine after a months-long pause. Ukraine’s Air Force said the North Korean missiles were used in recent strikes on Kryvyi Rih and the Zaporizhzhia region. The KN-23, also known as the Hwasong-11A, is an Iskander-like short-range ballistic missile that Ukrainian officials say may carry a larger warhead. Analysts believe Russia could be battle-testing the missiles to improve their accuracy. The renewed strikes highlight deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang and raise fresh concerns for Ukraine and its Western allies.