The U.S. Department of Defense condemned North Korea’s repeated launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) on the 21st (local time) and urged diplomatic dialogue.
During a briefing about North Korea’s recent ICBM launch, Department of Defense Press Secretary Patrick Ryder stated that the U.S. has consistently condemned North Korea’s missile launches and actions that pose a threat to security. He also indicated that no further details or additional information would be provided.
Ryder reiterated the United States’ ongoing diplomatic approach towards North Korea, emphasizing the call for dialogue. He made it clear that the U.S. harbors no hostile intentions towards North Korea, a stance that has been consistently communicated.
“What we’re focused on is regional security and stability and working closely with our ROK and Japanese allies, as well as other allies and partners in the region, to ensure that everyone in that region can live peacefully and safely, and that’s what we’ll continue to stay focused on,” he emphasized.
Earlier, on the 18th, North Korea launched a missile, believed to be a solid-fuel-based ICBM Hwasong-18, into the East Sea. Kim Jong Un attended the launch, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, and wife, Ri Sol Ju. This is the third launch of the Hwasong-18 type by North Korea, following those in April and July.
After observing the launch exercise, Kim was reported by North Korean media as saying, “It shows clearly what actions we are ready for and what choices we will make when Washington makes a wrong decision against us.”
He also said, “If enemies continue to make wrong choices, we must surely respond strongly with more evolved and threatening methods by taking offensive actions.”
By. Yoo Jin Cho
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