The Ukrainian Armed Forces have raised concerns about the deployment of North Korean 170-mm M1989 Koksan self-propelled guns by Russian forces in the Liman, Izyum, and Kramatorsk areas.
The information was shared on Ukrainian military Telegram channels.
Reports indicate that the long-range artillery targeted Liman, with Russian forces conducting sighting tests. The move is seen as preparation for potential strikes or fire support for advancing troops in the area.
Russian troops recently captured the settlement of Terny in the Liman sector, displacing Ukrainian forces to a new defensive line between Terny and Yampolovka. The battle for Terny lasted nearly a year.
The M1989 self-propelled guns, which entered Russia’s operational zone earlier this month, are described by experts as outdated but effective, particularly in counter-battery operations. These weapons are also noted for their capability to inflict damage on fortifications and impact Ukrainian troop morale.