North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a test-launch of strategic cruise missiles and ordered full readiness to use nuclear attack capability to ensure the most effective defense for the country, according to state media. The test was meant to warn enemies and demonstrate the readiness of North Korea’s nuclear operation means. Kim stated that the country’s striking ability guarantees perfect deterrence and defense capacity. The missile launch was conducted over the sea off the west coast of the Korean peninsula, with South Korea’s military detecting signs of launch preparations and tracking several cruise missiles.
North Korea has been developing strategic cruise missiles over several years with the intention of delivering nuclear warheads. These missiles tend to generate less alarm from the international community compared to ballistic missiles because they are not formally banned under U.N. Security Council resolutions that have banned North Korea from ballistic missile and nuclear weapons development. The missile test occurred as Kim made visits to military schools to emphasize loyalty and the importance of training young military officers.
Kim did not mention any specific country when speaking of warning enemies, but has maintained harsh rhetoric against the United States and South Korea. President Donald Trump had previously held unprecedented summit meetings with Kim during his first term in office. The report of the missile test comes amid tensions in the region and ongoing efforts to denuclearize North Korea.
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