North Korea test-fired two ballistic missiles, with one possibly flying abnormally, following a new U.S. military drill with South Korea and Japan. The missiles were launched from the town of Jangyon, flying 370 miles and 75 miles, but the second missile had a possible abnormal flight. The Joint Chiefs of Staff condemned the launches as a threat to peace, while maintaining readiness to repel any provocations. The drills were part of a trilateral security partnership to address North Korea’s nuclear threats and China’s assertiveness. North Korea strongly denounced the drill, calling it a siege on China and pressure on Russia. This led to “offensive and overwhelming” responses promised by North Korea. The launches were the first weapons firing in five days, following a multiwarhead missile test that South Korea dismissed as a deception. North Korea has also engaged in balloon activities with South Korea and struck a defense pact with Russia. Meanwhile, North Korea opened a key ruling party meeting to enhance socialism. The meeting was ongoing.
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North Korea launches two missiles following conclusion of joint exercises by U.S., South Korea, and Japan
