North Korea's missile launch heightens tensions before Trump era
North Korea has launched several ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan, as confirmed by South Korean armed forces. This marks the second provocation by Kim Jong Un's regime this year.
North Korea conducted another missile test, launching several ballistic missiles in the direction of the Sea of Japan. This information was confirmed by South Korean armed forces, who noted that it is already the second provocation by Pyongyang in a week. The incident occurred just a few days before Donald Trump was sworn in as the President of the United States.
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the missiles were launched around 12:30 AM Greenwich Time from the vicinity of Kanggye city in Chagang Province. According to the Polish Press Agency, they travelled approximately 250 kilometres. The Acting President of South Korea, Choi Sang Mok, condemned these actions, emphasizing that they violate UN Security Council resolutions. He assured that Seoul would respond in a "more decisive" manner, taking into account its alliance with the USA.
The US Indo-Pacific Command also expressed concerns and urged Pyongyang to cease such actions. The Japanese government spokesman, Yoshimasa Hayashi, announced that Tokyo would take all possible steps to cooperate with Washington and Seoul.
Expert analysis
According to the Yonhap Agency, the 250-kilometre range suggests they could be aimed at South Korea. Experts cited by the AFP agency interpret these actions as an attempt to pressure the new Trump administration, whose inauguration is scheduled for 20 January.
The previous missile test occurred on January 6th, indicating an intensification of Pyongyang's actions during this period. Recent events cannot be considered in isolation from significant international happenings. Much suggests that we are witnessing attempts to test the reactions of the new US administration and neighbouring countries to North Korea's continued actions.
