North Korea test-fired two ballistic missiles, with one possibly flying abnormally, following a new U.S. military drill with South Korea and Japan. The first missile flew 370 miles while the second only 75 miles. There were concerns of an abnormal flight with the second missile, but no damages were reported. The launches were condemned as a serious threat to peace on the Korean Peninsula, and South Korea remains ready to repel any provocations.
The missile launches came after the U.S., South Korea, and Japan completed a trilateral military drill called “Freedom Edge” aimed at enhancing joint ballistic missile defense. North Korea strongly denounced this drill, seeing it as an attempt to encircle China and pressure Russia. In response, North Korea vowed to defend its sovereignty through “offensive and overwhelming countermeasures.”
This recent missile test was North Korea’s first in five days, following a multiwarhead missile launch that South Korea dismissed as a failed test. Additionally, North Korea has engaged in balloon provocations and signed a defense pact with Russia, raising concerns about increased provocations.
In the midst of these tensions, North Korea has been holding a key ruling party meeting to discuss issues related to enhancing Korean-style socialism. The meeting, which started on Friday, is ongoing as of Monday.
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