How does Kim Jong-un get his luxury cars? The North Korean leader has frequently been seen using expensive Mercedes-Benz and Rolls-Royce limousines, in open defiance of U.N. sanctions intended to keep his country from importing luxury goods. Using shipping data, corporate records, satellite imagery and interviews, a Times investigation tracked the circuitous routes that North Korea uses to import high-end items. Why it matters: American officials say tough sanctions are the only real leverage to pressure North Korea into ending its nuclear weapons program, but Mr. Kim’s brazen and evasive tactics illustrate their limits. Related: North Korea is pressuring the U.S. to cancel military drills with South Korea scheduled for next month, warning that it would otherwise restart nuclear and missile tests.

Source: International New York Times July 16, 2019 20:14 UTC