North Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles, heightening tension with the United States
North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea from the Wonsan area, prompting condemnation from Seoul and warnings of U.N. sanctions.
On Sunday, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles from the eastern coastal city of Wonsan, with flight distances of about 280 miles and more than 370 miles before splashing down in the sea. South Korea’s military confirmed the tests and the presidential office demanded an immediate stop, noting that such launches violate U.N. Security Council resolutions. Japan’s defence ministry detected one of the missiles but said it did not enter Japanese territorial waters.
The tests come after Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, denounced recent U.S.-led maritime exercises as provocative and reiterated the regime’s intent to strengthen its nuclear deterrent. Earlier this month, North Korea also conducted a live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones, citing the trilateral U.S.-South Korea-Japan exercises as a provocation. Analysts say the missile launches are meant to pressure the United States and signal leverage ahead of any potential diplomatic talks.
Why it matters
The missile launches raise regional security risks and test the limits of international sanctions on North Korea.
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