North Korea, Kim launches missile from submarine as Trump opens dialogue

North Korean leader celebrates first strategic missile launch in Trump era as US president says he is ready to reopen dialogue

North Korea conducted a successful launch of a strategic cruise missile from a submarine, the state-run KCNA agency confirmed. The missile travelled 1,500 km, hitting the target accurately without threatening the security of neighbouring countries, the official report stressed. Leader Kim Jong-un witnessed the test, stating that ‘the DPRK’s means of deterrence are being increasingly perfected’.

Trump opens for dialogue with Kim

The launch comes shortly after statements by US President Donald Trump, who in an interview with Fox News called Kim Jong-un ‘an intelligent person’ and announced his intention to contact him. Trump, who met Kim three times during his first term in office, reiterated his open approach: ‘I got along well with him. I will hear from him’.

North Korea and support for Russia

As a possible rapprochement between Washington and Pyongyang looms, new details emerge about North Korea’s role in the conflict in Ukraine. According to Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence, Pyongyang has already sent 12,000 soldiers and a significant amount of weapons, including 150 short-range ballistic missiles and artillery systems, to support Russian forces in the Kursk border region. Kiev sources estimate 4,000 casualties among the North Korean military deployed so far.

A report by the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, quoted by the Yonhap news agency, suggests that Pyongyang is accelerating preparations to send additional troops and weapons, despite the heavy losses already suffered. North Korean missile provocations could also intensify, with the risk of new demonstrations of force.

A new geopolitical phase?

The first North Korean missile test since Trump took office highlights the delicate balance of the international situation. While the US president aims to reopen diplomatic channels with Kim and talks with Moscow, North Korea continues to consolidate its military position, fuelling tensions in Ukraine and the Asian region.

THE LATEST NEWS

[recent_post_slider design=”design-07″ show_author=”false” slider_height=”390″ lazyload=”progressive” limit=”6″ category=”11728″]

(Photo: © AndKronos)