International sanctions were unable to stop North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programs (Reuters)

Yesterday, Wednesday, the United States announced sanctions on six individuals and two entities in Russia, China, and the UAE, accusing them of transferring money to North Korean weapons programs.

South Korea, an ally of the United States, also imposed sanctions on 4 of the six individuals and two entities.

A statement by the US Treasury Department and the South Korean Foreign Ministry said that the measure was carried out in coordination between the two countries.

The statement explained that the two entities affected by the sanctions are the “Alice” company, based in Vladivostok, Russia, and the Pioneer Bankcount Star Real Estate Company, based in the Emirates.

The statement said the two companies are affiliated with Chainyoung Information Technology Corporation, an entity linked to North Korea's armed forces.

The South Korean Foreign Ministry said the sanctions target not only individuals directly involved, but also those who aided North Korea's illegal financial activities, specifically those who earn foreign currency in the IT sector abroad.

The ministry added, in a statement, that U Bo Aung, one of those included in the sanctions, was involved in money laundering and supplying sensitive materials used to develop North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, and was responsible for managing the funds.

The Treasury Department said that Chainyong, which was subject to US sanctions in May 2023, uses a network of companies and representatives to manage delegations of North Korean IT specialists in Russia and Laos.

This announcement came after the United States and South Korea launched a new task force this week aimed at preventing North Korea from illegally purchasing oil after the deadlock in the Security Council cast doubt on the future of international sanctions on Pyongyang.

For years, US-led international sanctions have been unable to stop North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programs, and many observers and sanctions experts believe the UN system is dying, if not already dead.

Source: Reuters