The US claims that Russia has employed North Korean-supplied ballistic missiles and launchers in its conflict with Ukraine.

It was referred to as a "significant and concerning escalation" on Pyongyang's support for Russia by National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.

He declared that the US would bring up the issue in the UN Security Council and that anyone who help arrange arms supplies would face more penalties.

Moscow has refuted any involvement of this kind.

Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, demanded that the nation increase its manufacture of missile launch vehicles just hours after the White House made the accusations.

In September, the leader of North Korea traveled to Russia to talk about possible military cooperation.

This is the first time US intelligence has released information about ballistic missiles, which are self-guided rockets that can reach targets 900 kilometers (500 miles) distant. The US has previously accused Pyongyang of providing Russia with weapons.

Mr. Kirby claimed that Russia's acquisition of ballistic missiles from North Korea was a clear breach of multiple UN Security Council resolutions during a press conference at the White House on Thursday.

"We will demand that Russia be held accountable for yet again violating its international obligations," he added.

He added that although Russia had not yet done so, the US thought it was going to buy Iranian close-range missiles.

The UK declared that it "strongly condemns" Russia's use of North Korean-made ballistic missiles in Ukraine.

A representative for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office stated, "North Korea is subject to a robust sanctions regime, and we will continue to work with our partners to ensure that North Korea pays a high price for supporting Russia's illegal war in Ukraine."

Mr. Kirby also urged Congress to approve additional US funding for Ukraine "without delay" in his report.

"Keeping Ukraine equipped with essential air defense capabilities is the most effective way to counteract Russia's horrifying acts of violence against the people of Ukraine."

"The DPRK [North Korea] and Iran support Russia. Ukrainians should be aware of the support they will continue to get from the American people and administration."

The White House authorized the final $250 million (£195 million) US military aid package to Ukraine on December 27.

Republicans' insistence that any agreement including military aid include stricter security measures on the US-Mexico border has caused talks on additional cash to stagnate in Congress.

Ukraine has issued a warning, stating that if more Western aid is not provided quickly, both the nation's war effort and public finances could be jeopardized.