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U.S. responds to North Korea missile tests
The White House says it is still willing to engage with Pyongyang, despite recent missile tests
North Korea describes the new “long-range cruise missiles” it tested over the weekend as a “strategic weapon of great significance”.
North Korea state-run media claims the missiles give the country “another effective deterrence means” against “hostile forces”.
Analysts say that the North Koreans often use the term ‘strategic’ as a euphemism for nuclear-capable.
However it is unclear if the nation is able to develop warheads small enough to be carried on these missiles.
A leading arms expert, Jeffrey Lewis, says an intermediate-range land-attack cruise missile is a pretty serious capability for North Korea.
According to state run media, the missiles flew 1500 kilometres, before hitting their targets and falling into the country’s territorial waters.
The tests took place just days after the reclusive nation celebrated the 73rd anniversary of its founding with a late night military parade.
Japan says it is “extremely concerned”
If the missiles are capable of flying 1500 kilometres, they would be able to hit targets in South Korea and most of Japan.
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary says such missiles would pose a “serious threat to the peace and safety of Japan and its surrounding areas.”
The U.S. military has also condemned the tests, saying they pose a threat to not only North Korea’s neighbours but the international community.
The White House, though, says it’s still willing to engage when it comes to the critical issue of denuclearisation.
“Our position has not changed when it comes to North Korea, we remain prepared to engage.”
White House principal deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre
Nuclear talks between the United States and North Korea have been stalled for two years.
The U.S. Special envoy for North Korea was already scheduled to hold three way talks with counterparts from Japan and South Korea this week.
There is little doubt about what will be top of the agenda.