Overview
- North Korea launched a suspected short-range ballistic missile into the East Sea on Friday, according to South Korean and U.S. officials.
- Defense Minister No Kwang-chol, via KCNA, condemned U.S.–South Korea security talks, joint air drills, and the USS George Washington’s port call, pledging more offensive action.
- The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said the launch did not pose an immediate threat but called it destabilizing and reaffirmed readiness to defend the homeland and allies.
- South Korea’s defense ministry strongly denounced the launch and urged Pyongyang to halt actions that raise tensions, as U.S. Forces Korea emphasized close consultation and readiness.
- The launch followed fresh U.S. sanctions on North Korean individuals and entities accused of cyber-related money laundering, with Pyongyang warning of unspecified countermeasures.