The United States is preparing to request the U.N. Security Council to impose sanctions on seven vessels believed to have violated existing sanctions against North Korea. These ships are accused of illegally exporting coal and iron ore to China, which generates significant revenue for North Korea, estimated between $200 million and $400 million annually. A State Department official emphasized that these sanctions are essential for maintaining accountability and preventing funding for North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. However, the effectiveness of this request may be hindered by the need for consensus among the Security Council's 15 members, particularly given the support North Korea receives from Russia and China. The U.N. sanctions against North Korea have been in place since 2006 and have been strengthened over time, but recent geopolitical dynamics have led to calls from China and Russia to ease these measures to encourage denuclearization talks. The U.S. has indicated that without consequences for violations, the sanctions could lose their effectiveness.