Breaking News: North Korea has launched another ballistic missile, the second such test in under a week, as the US and South Korea prepare for joint military exercises.
North Korea fired a ballistic missile Tuesday, according to Japan’s prime minister’s office. Details regarding trajectory and range remain unconfirmed. The US military stated it is monitoring the situation and consulting with regional allies, asserting there is no immediate threat to US personnel or territory.
The launch follows a similar test on August 5th from Wonsan, which landed off the east coast and did not reach Japanese territory. Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi condemned the launches as a threat to the region and lodged a protest with Pyongyang via their embassies in Beijing. South Korea’s military has increased surveillance and is coordinating with the US and Japan following both launches. The South Korean presidential national security council labelled the August 5th launch a “provocation” violating UN Security Council resolutions.
These tests precede the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises between the US and South Korea, designed to enhance combined defense posture and response capabilities. North Korea views these drills as invasion preparation and often responds with missile tests of its own. Officials maintain the exercises are defensive, while Pyongyang claims they are provocative.
Kim Jong Un recently called for bolstering his military’s “deadly and destructive offensive posture” following earlier tests in late June. The US remains committed to defending the region, officials say.
The exercises will feature live, virtual and field-based training with personnel from multiple services.
Sources: Fox News, The Jerusalem Post, The Daily Mail.
