North KOREA announced they successfully tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-19. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said the country had now reached “irreversible” status in developing nuclear weapons delivery facilities.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the test hosted by Kim was an important step in “maintaining the absolute superiority” of the country’s armed forces.
The South Korean military reported the missile was launched from Pyongyang territory at around 7:10 am local time, and was detected flying at a high angle for about 1,000 kilometers before falling in the East Sea. This missile is considered the newest solid fuel ICBM.
The ICBM launch was the first in almost a year and came just days before the US presidential election on November 5. Observers say North Korea’s provocation was likely intended to demonstrate its ability to deliver nuclear warheads to the US mainland and divert attention from criticism of its recent troop deployment to Russia.
North Korea describes the latest ICBM as an “ultra-powerful means of attack” and the “peak” version of its long-range missile series.
“The test of this latest strategic weapons system updates the current record of the DPRK’s strategic missile capabilities and demonstrates its modernity and credibility as the world’s most powerful strategic deterrent,” KCNA said, using an acronym for North Korea’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
The North Korean leader expressed satisfaction that the test proved the “hegemonic position” that North Korea has achieved in the development and production of nuclear delivery means that is “irreversible,” according to KCNA.
North Korea stated that the Hwasong-19 traveled a distance of 1,001.2 kilometers with a maximum altitude of 7,687.5 kilometers and flew for 5,156 seconds. This is recorded as the longest flight time for a North Korean missile.
Photos published by state media showed the missile being launched from a launch vehicle with 11 axles. Kim Jong-un’s daughter, known as Ju-ae, was also seen inspecting the missile launch. (Yonhap/Z-3)
#North #Korea #Claims #Successful #Test #Hwasong19 #ICBM #Missile #Carry #Nuclear #Weapons
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Lee, Expert in International Relations and North Korean Studies**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Lee. North Korea has recently announced a successful test of the Hwasong-19 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). What are the implications of this development for regional and global security?
**Dr. Lee:** Thank you for having me. The successful test of the Hwasong-19 ICBM marks a significant advancement in North Korea’s missile capabilities. By claiming it can reach the U.S. mainland, North Korea is not only demonstrating its technological progress but also sending a clear signal to both its regional adversaries and the United States. This could heighten tensions in the region as neighboring countries reassess their security strategies in response to this new threat.
**Interviewer:** The North Korean leadership has characterized this missile as part of their “irreversible” nuclear weapons program. What does that mean for diplomatic efforts aimed at denuclearization?
**Dr. Lee:** The term “irreversible” is alarming because it suggests that North Korea is stepping back from any intentions to negotiate or denuclearize. This could harden positions on both sides. The international community, particularly the U.S. and its allies, may find it increasingly difficult to engage in meaningful dialogue if North Korea feels emboldened by its missile advancements. We might see a renewed emphasis on sanctions or even military preparedness in response.
**Interviewer:** The test occurred just after a meeting between President Putin and Kim Jong-un. Is there a connection between these events?
**Dr. Lee:** Absolutely. The timing is highly significant. North Korea’s missile test, following such a high-profile meeting, indicates a strengthening partnership between Russia and North Korea. This could provide North Korea with not just moral support but also technological and material resources, further complicating the security landscape. It reflects a growing alliance that could lead to more aggressive posturing from both nations, especially regarding military activities in East Asia.
**Interviewer:** What should we watch for next in terms of responses from South Korea, Japan, and the United States?
**Dr. Lee:** I expect South Korea and Japan to bolster their defense capabilities, potentially increasing military cooperation with the U.S. We could see joint military exercises aimed at countering the threat posed by North Korea’s missile program. Additionally, Washington will likely reassess its approach to North Korea, possibly reviving discussions about missile defense systems in the region. we are likely entering a more confrontational phase, and maintaining dialogue will be crucial to avoid escalation.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Lee, for your insights into this pressing issue.
**Dr. Lee:** My pleasure. It’s important we stay informed about these developments as they are crucial for global peace and security.
