North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected the country’s strategic missile bases, stressing the need to be ready for an instant counterattack against potential enemies “at any moment.” About this informs Bloomberg with reference to the statements of the North Korean media.
Kim’s visit comes weeks before the US presidential election, which may signal Pyongyang’s attempt to draw the international community’s attention to its military might. Photos released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) show Kim standing next to intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads, potentially within range of the United States.
Kim Jong-un noted that the growing threat from the US nuclear arsenal requires the strengthening of North Korea’s defense potential. The leader also emphasized the need to modernize missile bases and maintain them in a state of combat readiness for an immediate response in any conditions.
It is worth noting that the last test of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) by North Korea took place in December, when the Hwasong-18 missile, which is considered one of the most powerful in the North Korean arsenal, was launched.
Tensions are rising on the Korean peninsula amid Pyongyang’s accusations against Seoul of using drones and speculation that North Korea is sending troops to Russia to support its war in Ukraine.
Despite the show of military might, questions remain about the ability of North Korean missiles to overcome US missile defense systems and successfully deliver nuclear warheads to targets after re-entry.
