North Korea Tests Strategic Cruise Missiles Amid Rising Tensions and Military Alliance with Russia
North Korea’s Kim Jong Un oversaw a test launch of cruise missiles, emphasizing nuclear readiness. The event escalates tensions and showcases military ties with Russia, where North Korean troops are reportedly reinforcing Russian military efforts. The test aims to signal a strong defense posture against perceived threats.
Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, supervised the recent test launch of strategic cruise missiles amid rising tensions in East Asia. The official Korean Central News Agency reported that this test serves as a warning to adversaries threatening the nation’s security, highlighting North Korea’s readiness for nuclear operations. Mr. Kim emphasized the importance of these new strategic missiles in strengthening the nation’s nuclear defenses during discussions with a senior Russian delegation led by President Vladimir Putin.
The cruise missiles traveled an impressive 1,587 kilometers in a unique oval trajectory, with a launch time recorded between 7,961 and 7,973 seconds to reach their targets. This marked the fourth missile test of the year, reinforcing North Korea’s military capabilities. Mr. Kim stated, “It is the responsible mission and duty of the DPRK’s nuclear armed forces to permanently defend the national sovereignty and security with the reliable nuclear shield,” referring to North Korea’s official name.
While North Korea has not disclosed the exact number of missiles tested, South Korea’s military tracked several launches occurring at approximately 8 a.m. local time. On the subsequent day, Mr. Kim dispatched a high-level delegation to Moscow, signaling deepening military cooperation and strategic relations between North Korea and Russia, which has raised global concerns regarding Pyongyang’s military support to Moscow.
President Putin engaged with the North Korean delegation, which included Ri Hi Yong, a prominent official from the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea. In addition, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service reported the deployment of additional North Korean troops to Russia to support the warfronts, especially following significant losses in Russia’s ongoing military efforts in Ukraine. The agency is investigating the number of recent deployments amid prior troop movements that occurred in the earlier weeks of February.
In conclusion, the recent missile tests conducted by North Korea underline its ongoing military escalation in response to perceived threats. The enhancement of strategic ties with Russia raises international security concerns, especially with reported troop deployments aimed at reinforcing Russia’s frontlines. Kim Jong Un’s statements reaffirm North Korea’s commitment to its nuclear capabilities as a means of maintaining national sovereignty and security.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
