North Korea successfully tested its new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-19, which state media described as “the world’s strongest strategic missile,” Reuters reports.
The missile reportedly flew for nearly 86 minutes, reaching an altitude of over 7,600 kilometers (4,776 miles) and covering a distance of approximately 1,001 kilometers (622 miles) before landing in the ocean between Japan and Russia. State media lauded the missile test, which achieved a height greater than any previous North Korean missile, with a range capable of reaching the US. However, it remains uncertain if North Korea can effectively guide the missile and protect a nuclear warhead during reentry.
This missile test has drawn international condemnation, particularly from the US, South Korea, Japan, Europe, and the UN. South Korea imposed new sanctions on 11 North Korean individuals and four entities linked to missile development.
The test comes amid reports of North Korean troops aiding Russia in Ukraine, sparking concerns over potential military technology exchanges between Pyongyang and Moscow.
