North Korea has announced the successful test of an intercontinental ballistic missile, which it calls “the most powerful strategic weapon in the world.” Leader Kim Jong-un said the test was a warning to adversaries who threaten Pyongyang’s security, according to the state news agency KCNA.
According to South Korea, the missile was launched on the morning of October 31, and the flight lasted 87 minutes, Reuters reports.
Kim said that the “test fire” was a military response to the escalation of the situation in the region by adversaries who pose a threat to North Korea’s security. This demonstration test comes amid international concern that Pyongyang may have received missile technology from Russia in exchange for assistance in the war in Ukraine.
The launch drew sharp criticism from South Korea, Japan, and the United States. Additionally, Seoul’s military intelligence has noted that North Korea may conduct further tests of an intercontinental ballistic missile or conduct a seventh nuclear test during the US presidential election.
Shin Seung-ki, head of the North Korean armed forces’ research department, suggested that the new launch was probably intended to test improved missile performance, possibly with the help of Russian technology.
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