North Korea Fires Rockets into Yellow Sea Following Joint US-South Korea Drills
North Korea launched over ten rockets into the Yellow Sea after South Korea, the US, and Japan conducted joint air drills. This move follows increased military collaboration amid escalating tensions. Recent reports suggest a strong alignment between North Korea and Russia, contributing to anxieties regarding military developments in the region.
Following joint air drills conducted by South Korea, the United States, and Japan, North Korea launched over ten rockets into the Yellow Sea on Thursday morning. The projectiles were fired from Sunan, near Pyongyang, and flew in a north-westerly direction, according to reports from South Korea’s military. While South Korea typically refers to these as short-range ballistic missiles, it is crucial to note they are prohibited under UN Security Council resolutions.
The launchings utilized North Korea’s upgraded 240-millimeter multiple rocket launcher, which made its debut last year. This weapon is believed to have the capability to strike significant South Korean population centers, including those in the Seoul metropolitan area. According to a South Korean military official, “The projectiles, believed to be multiple launch rockets, flew tens of kilometers before falling into the Yellow Sea.” Intelligence from South Korea and US forces is reportedly keeping a watchful eye on these developments.
The trilateral air exercises were the first of their kind under the newly elected administration of South Korea’s President, Lee Jae Myung. Increased military collaborations among these nations highlight growing tensions in the region, especially in light of recent alignments between North Korea and Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Reports suggest North Korea has provided weapons and possibly up to 15,000 troops to assist Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
There is growing concern among South Korean officials regarding the potential exchange of economic support and advanced military technology from Russia to North Korea, which may further enhance Pyongyang’s military capabilities. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been vocal about advancing nuclear and missile technologies, underscoring this trajectory. Earlier this year, he proclaimed the successful construction of two new 5,000-ton naval destroyers, labeling this addition to their arsenal as “convincing proof of the rapid transformation of our Navy.”
In summary, with these recent missile launches and military developments, the geopolitical landscape in the Korean Peninsula remains tense. As events unfold, observers will be closely monitoring actions from both North Korea and the allied nations in the region. This situation continues to evolve, and updates will be provided as more news becomes available.
In conclusion, North Korea’s latest missile launches signify escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, further exacerbated by recent military drills involving South Korea, the US, and Japan. The joint exercises, alongside North Korea’s missile capabilities and ties with Russia, raise significant security concerns in the region. As the geopolitical climate intensifies, close supervision and international response will be essential in addressing these developments.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
