In a bold show of defiance, North Korea tested a mid-range ballistic missile on Thursday, coinciding with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s high-stakes diplomatic visit to South Korea. The launch, which soared over the Sea of Japan, is seen as a direct challenge to ongoing efforts by Washington and Seoul to bolster regional security.
Secretary Blinken condemned the act, calling it “a reckless provocation that undermines peace.” South Korea’s military heightened its alertness, while international analysts warned of escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
The missile test underscores Pyongyang’s refusal to back down amidst increasing U.S.-South Korea military drills, setting a grim tone for Blinken’s discussions with President Yoon Suk-yeol on deterring future threats.
Observers fear this move could derail any hopes of resuming stalled denuclearization talks with the North.
Source:@SaharaReporters