North Korea launches strategic cruise missiles ahead of Trump’s South Korea visit: a new regional challenge
On the eve of former US President Donald Trump’s planned visit to South Korea, North Korea’s military conducted another test of strategic cruise missiles, raising regional and international concerns.
On Tuesday, October 28, North Korea carried out missile tests involving sea-to-land missiles designed for nuclear warheads.
Reports indicate that these missiles flew over two hours before hitting their targets, further complicating the already tense situation along the North-South Korea border.
The tests came just a day after previous launches of hypersonic missiles, which sparked various speculations about Pyongyang’s future plans.
For years, the United States and South Korea have responded to North Korea’s missile activities with heightened alarm, amid a backdrop of ongoing nuclear and missile developments.
Trump, during his first trip back to the White House, expressed his desire to personally meet with Kim Jong-un to discuss de-escalation, but North Korea has remained silent on direct negotiations, instead bolstering its nuclear and missile capabilities.
Meanwhile, North Korea has strengthened alliances with Russia and China, providing weapons and assisting in regional conflicts.
Moscow and Beijing, in turn, have increased their diplomatic and military support to Pyongyang, thus giving Kim Jong-un additional leverage on the international stage.
These developments reflect a significant shift in regional power dynamics and military readiness, highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts and sanctions in addressing North Korea’s provocative actions.