Seoul: The U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) on Thursday criticized North Korea's recent ballistic missile launch, labeling it "unlawful" and "destabilizing." The USFK urged North Korea to cease further provocations that contravene U.N. security resolutions.
According to Yonhap News Agency, North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles northeastward on Wednesday at approximately 8:10 a.m. The missiles traveled around 350 kilometers. North Korea confirmed the launch the following day, asserting it aimed to enhance its strategic deterrence capabilities.
In a statement, the USFK acknowledged North Korea's ongoing efforts to develop long-range missile capabilities, referring to the country by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). "The United States condemns these unlawful and destabilizing actions," the statement read, urging North Korea to halt actions violating the United Nations Security Council Resolution.
The USFK emphasized its close consultation with South Korea, reaffirming its "ironclad" commitment to the South Korea-U.S. alliance. "Our focus is on maintaining the readiness required to defend the homelands. ... There is no substitute for being ready," the statement added.
This recent ballistic missile launch marks North Korea's fifth provocation this year and the first since President Lee Jae Myung's inauguration in June. The launch occurred ahead of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, which will be attended by U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who are scheduled to visit South Korea for talks with President Lee.