North Korea tests hypersonic missile targeting remote Pacific locations

North Korea announced it tested a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile aimed at remote Pacific targets. This missile reportedly flew 932 miles, reaching speeds of 12 times the speed of sound, according to state media. South Korea's military, however, doubts these claims. The launch occurred as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea, where he condemned North Korea's actions as violations of UN resolutions. He also expressed concerns about the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Kim Jong Un emphasized the missile's importance for enhancing North Korea's nuclear deterrence. He did not directly criticize the U.S., South Korea, or Japan during this announcement, but he vowed to pursue a strong anti-U.S. policy.