North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen the test launch of strategic cruise missiles, signaling enhanced military readiness. This test serves as a warning to perceived enemies and coincides with a meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin, amidst reports of North Korean troop deployments to Russia.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently oversaw the launch of strategic cruise missiles amid rising regional tensions. This test aimed to caution “enemies” who threaten the nation’s security and to showcase North Korea’s nuclear operational readiness, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency. Mr. Kim praised the newly developed missiles, emphasizing their role in reinforcing the country’s nuclear defenses as a senior delegation met President Vladimir Putin in Russia.
The tested missiles reportedly traveled 1,587 kilometers, achieving their targets in approximately 7,961 to 7,973 seconds. This occasion marked North Korea’s fourth missile launch in the year and the second during Donald Trump’s term. Mr. Kim asserted, “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,” indicating a strong commitment to the nation’s military stance.
North Korea has not disclosed the exact number of missiles launched; however, South Korea’s military confirmed monitoring several cruise missiles launched at around 8 a.m. local time. In a show of solidarity, Mr. Kim dispatched a delegation of high-ranking officials to Moscow to bolster military ties amid concerns that North Korea may be supplying ammunition to Russia.
President Putin engaged with the delegation, led by Ri Hi Yong, a senior member of North Korea’s ruling party, in discussions that included top Russian officials. Furthermore, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service reported the recent deployment of additional North Korean troops to Russia, following significant casualties among their forces on the Russian-Ukraine front. The NIS is currently investigating the scale of this troop deployment.
In summary, the test launch of strategic cruise missiles by North Korea signals heightened military readiness and escalates tensions in the region. This follows Kim Jong Un’s meeting with President Putin, reinforcing the alliance between North Korea and Russia. The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia amid heavy casualties highlights the strategic partnership and increasing military collaboration between the two nations.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
