North Korea tests new cruise missiles in latest weapons demonstration

North Korea's state media announced that the country successfully test-launched new cruise missiles, in what Pyongyang described as a demonstration of its advanced weapons capabilities. The launches were overseen by senior military officials.

Weapons program

The test is part of North Korea's ongoing weapons development program, which has accelerated in recent years to include ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and nuclear warhead miniaturization. International sanctions have failed to halt the program.

Regional reactions

South Korea, Japan, and the United States condemned the launches and called for a return to diplomacy. The United Nations Security Council has repeatedly failed to pass new sanctions resolutions due to vetoes from Russia and China.