Voice of America (VOA) reported on May 14 that there has been a recent surge in train traffic in the border region between North Korea and Russia.
In April, an analysis of satellite images by Planet Labs, a private satellite company, revealed that approximately 36 trains passed on the North Korean side of the tracks near the Friendship Bridge between North Korea and Russia. This is a fivefold increase in traffic in just one year, compared to the seven trains detected in the same area in May 2023.
In particular, super-sized trains over 2,297 feet in length were also spotted. On April 7, two trains measuring 2,526 feet and 2,493 feet respectively were detected. On April 8th, a train measuring 2,493 feet was identified. Additionally, a train measuring 2,592 feet (790m) was observed staying for three days before leaving on April 17th.
Considering days with cloud cover or when satellite images were not taken, the number of super-sized trains is likely higher. VOA speculated that the increase in train traffic and the overall lengthening of trains suggest a significant increase in the volume of goods transported between North Korea and Russia.
Meanwhile, on May 13, a large ship measuring 426 feet and numerous containers were also spotted in the vicinity of Najin Port.
It is not known what goods North Korea and Russia have exchanged using railways and ships, however, there is a high possibility that they could be trading fuel or weapons.
