The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) conducted a strategic cruise missile test on Saturday, showcasing its advancing military capabilities amidst escalating tensions with the United States.
State media outlet KCNA reported on Sunday that DPRK leader Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the test-fire of an \"important weapon system.\" The underwater-to-surface strategic cruise missiles traveled 1,500 kilometers, flying for approximately 7,500 seconds before accurately hitting their designated targets.
Kim Jong Un emphasized the significance of strengthening the nation's defense capabilities in response to changing regional security circumstances. \"The DPRK will always make strenuous efforts to perform its important mission and duty for defending sustainable and lasting peace and stability on the basis of more powerfully developed military muscle in the future,\" Kim was quoted as saying.
In a separate statement released on Sunday, the DPRK's Foreign Ministry vowed the \"toughest counteraction\" against the United States as long as Washington continues to \"refuse\" Pyongyang's sovereignty. The ministry attributed the growing tensions in the region to the military alliance and joint drills between South Korea and the U.S.
The statement came in response to comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump during an interview on Thursday, in which he indicated plans to reach out to Kim Jong Un, highlighting the working relationship developed during his first term.
The DPRK's recent missile test is part of a series of efforts to bolster its national defense capabilities against potential adversaries. Earlier this month, state media reported that Kim oversaw a successful test of a new intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile.
Kim affirmed that the nation's war deterrence means are being \"perfected more thoroughly,\" signaling a continued commitment to strengthening its military posture.
Reference(s):
DPRK fires strategic cruise missiles, vows tough stance on U.S.
cgtn.com
