North Korea says leader Kim supervised missile tests simulating nuclear strikes

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 2:32 am

Kim Jong Un Oversees Missile Tests Simulating Nuclear Strikes, Heightening Peninsula Tensions

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw recent short-range ballistic missile tests, simulating nuclear counterstrikes against the United States and South Korea, according to state media reports released Friday. The tests, conducted on Thursday, involved a mobile ballistic missile system, potentially modeled after Russia's Iskander, and 600-millimeter multiple rocket launchers. These weapons systems are part of North Korea's growing arsenal, which it claims can be armed with tactical nuclear weapons for battlefield use.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated the tests aimed to train military units to execute attacks effectively under the North's nuclear weapons control system and ensure a swift response to a nuclear crisis. The agency also criticized the U.S. and its allies for expanding joint military exercises, which North Korea views as preparations for nuclear war.

South Korea's military detected multiple launches from North Korea's eastern coast. They assessed the tests could also be linked to weapons exports to Russia for its war in Ukraine. The launches, which included missiles traveling up to 800 kilometers, were condemned by South Korea's Unification Ministry as a clear act of provocation violating UN Security Council resolutions and threatening regional peace. Japan confirmed that none of the missiles entered its exclusive economic zone. This marks North Korea's first known ballistic activity since March 10th and the sixth launch event of the year.

The tests come amid escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, fueled by Kim's accelerated nuclear and missile program and his support for Russia's war in Ukraine.

BNN's Perspective: While North Korea's actions are undeniably provocative and destabilizing, it's crucial to acknowledge the cycle of escalation. The joint military exercises conducted by the U.S. and South Korea, while intended to deter aggression, are perceived by North Korea as a threat, potentially fueling their aggressive behavior. A balanced approach, combining firm condemnation with a willingness to engage in dialogue, is essential to de-escalate tensions and seek a peaceful resolution.

Keywords: North Korea, Kim Jong Un, missile tests, nuclear strikes, ballistic missiles, South Korea, Russia, Ukraine, tensions, Korean Peninsula, military exercises, KCNA, provocation, UN Security Council, weapons exports, Iskander, tactical nuclear weapons, Wonsan, Japan, defense, security.

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