North Korea launches satellite into orbit, raising concerns in NATO
North Korea has successfully launched its first spy satellite, sparking concern among analysts and authorities. NATO's chief was also quick to respond, condemning the action for increasing tension and posing a severe threat to regional and international security, as conveyed by Jens Stoltenberg.
5:06 PM EST, November 23, 2023
The North Korean government announced on Wednesday the launch of the Chollima-1 rocket, which propelled the Malligyong-1 satellite into Earth's orbit. The event was witnessed by the DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, who emphasized that the country plans to deploy more satellites.
The move by Pyongyang has raised anxieties among world leaders and analysts. Among those expressing concern was Japan's Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, who claimed that North Korea's actions compromised the security of the Japanese people.
"If the satellite is functional, it will enhance the capabilities of military command, control, communications, and intelligence. It would improve North Korea's ability to control its forces," said Carl Schuster, former director of operations at the United States Pacific Command Joint Intelligence Operations Center, in an interview with CNN.
NATO slams North Korea's reckless behavior
NATO has also issued a statement on the matter. "I firmly condemn the launch by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) of a military satellite using ballistic missile technology, which violates multiple UN Security Council resolutions. It raises tension and constitutes a serious threat to regional and international security," - reads the statement from NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
"North Korea must stop its reckless behavior, abandon its nuclear and ballistic programs, and engage in sincere diplomacy. NATO stands in solidarity with our partners in the region: Republic of Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand," Stoltenberg declared.
