North Korea Launches Missiles Amid US-South Korea Military Drills

In a provocative move, North Korea launched approximately 10 short-range ballistic missiles into the sea on Thursday, as South Korea and the United States conduct their annual military exercises. The missiles were reportedly fired from Pyongyang towards the eastern waters of North Korea around 5 PM local time, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff.

This missile test coincided with a significant reduction in the duration of joint military drills by the US and South Korea, which have been shortened from 11 days to five. The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise, intended to enhance defenses against potential North Korean threats, is often condemned by Pyongyang, which views such drills as rehearsals for invasion.

Following the missile launches, South Korea's National Security Council convened an emergency meeting, issuing a statement that urged North Korea to cease ballistic missile tests, which contravene UN Security Council resolutions. The situation has prompted South Korea to enhance its surveillance efforts and maintain close communication with the US and Japan.

On the diplomatic front, US President Donald Trump recently announced plans to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later this year, although no specific date has been set. Meanwhile, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, visiting South Korea, urged Seoul to avoid siding with either Beijing or Washington and called for a reevaluation of the US's approach towards North Korea to mitigate tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

Source: www.abc.net.au