North Korean missile tests highlight ongoing regional tensions
North Korea launched two ballistic missiles. One of them exploded in flight. According to South Korea, its fragments might have fallen on the territory of Pyongyang.
North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile, which flew approximately 600 km, and a second ballistic missile, which flew approximately 120 km—both from an area near the western coast.
As highlighted by Reuters, the flight trajectory indicates that the second missile might have fallen near the capital, Pyongyang. South Korea stated that it has been observing the North Korean missile launch from the preparation stage and is tracking the missile in flight.
We strongly condemn North Korea's missile launch as a clear provocation that seriously threatens peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, said the South Korean military representatives in a statement, adding that they have shared information about the missiles with the US and Japanese authorities.
The South Korean military can respond to provocation as part of a solid joint defence posture.
Another failed attempt by North Korea
The second missile launch on Monday would be the second failed attempt within five days. The South Korean military reported that on Wednesday, North Korea launched something that looked like a hypersonic missile, which, however, went out of control and exploded.
Let's recall that North Korea is suspected of supplying Russia with ballistic missiles and artillery shells. Both countries deny this despite promises of military cooperation and a recently signed pact containing promises of mutual military support.
