North Korea’s Kim directs cruise missile test amid South Korea-US drills
Kim Jong Un, the Supreme Leader of North Korea, visited a navy unit to see a test of strategic cruise missiles on Monday, as South Korea and the United States kicked off joint military drills. The North Korean leader reportedly visited a navy unit on the east coast to inspect the Guards 2nd Surface Ship Flotilla of the East Sea Fleet. He also oversaw the test of “strategic” cruise missiles. The missile launch was aimed at verifying the ship’s “regular posture for mobilization and offensive ability.” According to the Korean Central News Agency, the North Korean leader vowed to strengthen the country’s navy. Yonhap news agency reported citing KCNA that the launch was an apparent response to the joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the United States. Kim also lauded the navy of the Korean People’s Army (KPA), the military force of the country and the armed wing of the Workers' Party of Korea. South Korea and the United States kicked off the annual Ulchi Free...