North Korea has launched several ballistic missiles, marking the first such activity since Donald Trump’s return to power. The launches, likely involving short-range missiles, followed strong criticism directed at joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises. Amidst rising tensions, North Korea’s military cooperation with Russia also intensifies concerns regarding its nuclear capabilities and regional stability.
North Korea has conducted multiple ballistic missile launches from its western coast, signaling the country’s continued commitment to missile testing following Donald Trump’s return to power. Reports from the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff confirm that at least two missiles were launched from Hwanghae Province, with further details pending. Yonhap News reports suggest that these missiles were likely short-range ballistic types.
These missile tests were initiated shortly after North Korea condemned the joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, which commenced on March 10. This exercise, known as the US-South Korea Freedom Shield 25, emphasizes readiness in response to North Korean provocations and is scheduled to continue until March 20.
This year’s missile activity includes significant launches, with Kim Jong Un overseeing a strategic cruise missile test on February 26 and an intermediate-range ballistic missile on January 6, which was described as a hypersonic weapon intended to deter regional adversaries. During Trump’s first administration, certain military exercises were either suspended or reduced to foster dialogue with North Korea, although talks ultimately broke down.
After Trump’s inauguration, Kim Jong Un remarked on the inevitability of confrontations with adversaries and advocated for enhancements in North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. The backdrop to these missile tests involves ongoing political instability in Seoul, following martial law imposed by President Yoon Suk Yeol and his impeachment.
Recent missile technology, particularly the Hwasong-11 series, can carry significant payloads, including nuclear warheads. Furthermore, accusations have arisen concerning Kim’s cooperation with Russia, alleging the transfer of missiles to assist in Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. This partnership raises international concerns regarding North Korea’s military advancements and regime stability, bolstered by Russian support. South Korean intelligence suggests that additional North Korean troops have been dispatched to assist Russian forces, exacerbating regional tensions.
In light of recent ballistic missile launches by North Korea, there are renewed concerns about the nation’s military intentions and its geopolitical alliances, particularly with Russia. The activities coincide with critical military exercises conducted by the United States and South Korea, and they underscore North Korea’s determination to enhance its nuclear capabilities. Furthermore, ongoing political instability in South Korea only adds complexity to these developments.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
