North Korea has test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile towards the sea, with South Korea reporting that it is believed to be the longest flight-time for a North Korean missile. The missile was launched towards the East Sea, on a lofted trajectory allowing it to travel to a high altitude before landing a short distance away. This type of launch helps North Korea gather data for long-range missile tests. Japan’s Defence Minister noted that this missile had the longest flight time of any previous missiles launched by Pyongyang.
This missile launch comes after South Korea’s military intelligence reported that North Korea may be preparing for its seventh nuclear test and testing a long-range missile capable of reaching the US. Additionally, concerns have been raised about North Korean troops being sent to Russia to support its war against Ukraine.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin described the movement of North Korean troops towards Ukraine as a dangerous and destabilizing development while speaking at a press conference with South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun. South Korea estimates that over 11,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, with more than 3,000 deployed close to the fighting in western Russia.
This latest missile launch adds to the tensions in the region, with concerns about North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities escalating. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation and possible responses to these developments.
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