North Korea has launched strategic cruise missiles in a show of its nuclear counterattack capability, just days after warning of retaliation against what it sees as increasing U.S. threats.
The missile tests took place Wednesday off the country’s west coast and were personally overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, according to North Korea’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This marks the country’s fourth missile test this year and the second since Donald Trump began his second presidential term.
KCNA reported that the missile launches were meant to demonstrate North Korea’s readiness to respond to enemies it accuses of threatening its security and escalating tensions. Kim was reportedly pleased with the results and urged the military to remain prepared to use nuclear weapons if necessary.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff confirmed tracking the missile activity and assured that its military is ready to counter any potential provocation in coordination with U.S. forces.
Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has spoken about his past meetings with Kim and expressed interest in reviving diplomacy. However, North Korea has so far ignored his efforts, continuing its aggressive rhetoric and military activities.
Experts believe Kim is currently more focused on supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine by supplying weapons and troops. They suggest he might reconsider negotiations with the U.S. if he feels uncertain about North Korea’s long-term alliance with Russia after the war.
Last week, North Korea’s Defense Ministry accused the U.S. and its allies of stepping up military provocations since Trump’s return. The ministry pointed to a recent U.S.-South Korean military drill involving a B-1B bomber as evidence of increasing threats.
Kim and Trump previously held three meetings between 2018 and 2019 to discuss North Korea’s nuclear program, but talks broke down over U.S. sanctions. Since then, North Korea has accelerated weapons testing to expand its nuclear arsenal. Analysts say Kim, now in a stronger position, may believe he can negotiate better terms if he resumes diplomacy with the U.S. in the future.