North Korea ballistic missiles fired during US-South Korea drills raise regional tensions

North Korea ballistic missiles were launched into the sea on Saturday as tensions rose during joint military drills between the United States and South Korea.

According to South Korea’s military, more than ten North Korea ballistic missiles were fired from an area near the capital Pyongyang. The missiles were launched around 1:20 pm local time and traveled toward waters off the country’s eastern coast.

Japan’s coast guard also reported detecting what appeared to be a ballistic missile falling into the sea. Japanese broadcaster NHK said the missile landed outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

The latest North Korea ballistic missiles launch happened while US and South Korean forces were conducting large annual military exercises. Officials from both countries say the drills are defensive and aim to improve readiness against possible threats from North Korea.

During the exercises on Saturday, hundreds of American and South Korean troops carried out river-crossing operations. Tanks and armored combat vehicles were used in the drills under the supervision of the combined forces commander.

The United States currently has about 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea along with fighter jet units. These forces are part of long-standing security cooperation between Washington and Seoul.

North Korea has conducted missile tests for more than two decades as it seeks to develop systems capable of delivering nuclear weapons. Experts believe the country has already built nuclear weapons.

Because of its weapons program, Pyongyang has faced multiple sanctions from the United Nations Security Council since 2006. Despite economic pressure, North Korea continues missile testing and often criticizes US-South Korea military drills.

Pyongyang regularly describes these exercises as preparations for an attack against it. The United States and South Korea reject this claim and say their activities are purely defensive.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are also being discussed. Earlier this week, South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok met US President Donald Trump in Washington.

Kim told reporters that Trump remains interested in holding talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un if an opportunity arises.