North Korea launched a medium-range ballistic missile that flew more than 1,100 kilometers to the east and fell into the sea. This happened during the visit of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to Seoul, informs Reuters.
At a press conference hours after the launch, Blinken emphasized the importance of close cooperation between the US, South Korea and Japan. He emphasized that the exchange of missile data in real time and the conduct of joint military exercises remain key elements for ensuring security in the region.
“Today’s launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our work together is.”, the state secretary noted.
At the same time, he expressed concern over deepening cooperation between North Korea and Russia. According to Blinken, the US suspects that Moscow may exchange space and satellite technology with Pyongyang in exchange for its support for the war in Ukraine.
The launch was the first since November 5 that North Korea has fired at least seven short-range ballistic missiles. While the exact type of missile fired has yet to be confirmed, tests last year showed that Pyongyang is working on new solid-fuel ICBM designs.
