North Korea launches ballistic missile during Anthony Blinken's visit

North Korea launched a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan, coinciding with the official visit of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to South Korea.

According to Yonhap News, this was the first such launch since 5 November 2024, when North Korea fired several short-range missiles amid the US presidential election. At the time, Pyongyang emphasised its opposition to the strengthening cooperation between the US, South Korea and Japan.

During a press conference held a few hours after the incident, Anthony Blinken noted that the launch once again underscores the importance of close coordination among allied nations. He highlighted efforts to share missile data in real time and to organise joint military exercises, which, he said, strengthen regional security.

"This launch is a reminder of the need for our coordinated work to ensure stability and protect shared interests," Blinken stated, Reuters reports.

The Secretary of State also addressed the issue of growing cooperation between North Korea and Russia. He said the US suspects that Moscow may be providing Pyongyang with space and satellite technology in exchange for support for Russia's aggression in Ukraine.