North Korea Escalates Tensions with Multiple Missile Launches Amid International Summit

Pyongyang's missile tests coincide with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Seoul for the Summit for Democracy, signaling a defiant stance against joint military exercises and international diplomatic efforts.

North Korea fires multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, marking its first missile test in about a month.
The missile launches occur as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends the Summit for Democracy in Seoul, emphasizing Pyongyang's opposition to U.S.-South Korea military drills.
Japan and South Korea confirm the missile launches, with projectiles landing in waters outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.
The tests follow the conclusion of the annual Freedom Shield joint military exercises between the U.S. and South Korea, which North Korea condemns as invasion rehearsals.
U.S. and South Korean officials reaffirm their commitment to regional security, condemning the missile tests as threats to peace and stability.