North Korea's cruise missile test sparks global concern
North Korea conducted a test of strategic cruise missiles, confirmed by state media. Kim Jong Un supervised the test, emphasizing the need for readiness to use nuclear weapons.
The North Korean army carried out a test of strategic cruise missiles, which was announced by state media on Friday. Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, personally supervised these actions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining full readiness to use nuclear weapons.
The tests took place on Wednesday morning over the waters off the country's western coast. According to the official KCNA news agency, the missiles flew for 132-133 minutes, covering a distance of 986 miles, before precisely hitting designated targets. South Korea's Yonhap agency highlighted that the missiles' designation as "strategic" suggests their capability to carry nuclear warheads.
The test aimed to warn "enemies who seriously violate the country's security environment" and demonstrate readiness to use various nuclear operations. Kim Jong Un called for constantly defending the nation's sovereignty and security using a "reliable nuclear shield." The strike capability is intended as "the ultimate means of deterrence and defense."
Fourth test in 2025
The South Korean military confirmed detecting the launch of multiple cruise missiles towards the Yellow Sea. Together with U.S. intelligence agencies, they are analyzing flight data. The development and testing of cruise missiles are not subject to UN Security Council sanctions, distinguishing them from ballistic and nuclear weapons.
This was the fourth missile test by Pyongyang in 2025 and the second since Donald Trump returned to the White House. The tests took place shortly before the planned Freedom Shield maneuvers in March involving South Korea and the USA, which Pyongyang regularly condemns, often responding with missile tests.
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