North Korea launches ballistic missile and other weapons toward the sea
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- North Korea launched a close-range ballistic missile and multiple rocket launch systems toward the sea, likely testing its ability to evade South Korean and U.S. defenses, marking its first weapons launch since April 19.
- The missile was fired from Jongju and flew about 80 kilometers; other projectiles were also launched, though details were not specified by South Korea’s military.
- The launches come shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed opposition to Western sanctions and military pressure on North Korea during their recent summit.
- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has focused on modernizing his nuclear and missile capabilities and has strengthened ties with Russia and China amid stalled nuclear diplomacy with the U.S.
- South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for enhanced military capabilities, including AI, drones, and nuclear-powered submarines, emphasizing South Korea’s responsibility for its own security while maintaining the U.S. alliance.