North Korea launches short-range missiles into sea
North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the sea, with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani reporting at least seven missiles traveling up to 400 kilometers with a 100-kilometer maximum altitude. The missiles landed in waters between Japan and the Korean Peninsula, prompting heightened surveillance from both Japanese and South Korean military forces.
This missile demonstration comes shortly after North Korea tested its newest intercontinental ballistic missile, the Hwasong-19, which leader Kim Jong Un claimed is "the world's strongest" ICBM. However, experts maintain the solid-fuel missile is impractical for warfare and lacks critical technologies for effective ICBM functionality.
The timing of these launches coincides with the US presidential election, with South Korean officials suggesting North Korea is likely intensifying its military displays to capture Washington's attention. Intelligence reports indicate North Korea may have also completed preparations for its seventh nuclear test.
South Korean and EU officials have expressed concerns about possible technology transfers between Russia and North Korea, warning that such exchanges could enhance North Korea's nuclear capabilities and threaten global stability.
In response to North Korea's growing nuclear threat, the US, South Korea, and Japan have increased their joint military exercises, which North Korea views as invasion rehearsals. At a recent UN Security Council meeting, North Korea defended its nuclear program as a necessary response to perceived US threats, while US Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood warned of potential US responses to North Korea's expanding nuclear capabilities.
The situation reflects escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, complicated by North Korea's reported support of Russia's war in Ukraine and its continued pursuit of nuclear weapons development.
