North Korea Launches Short-Range Missiles

North Korea has launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, marking its second provocation this year, just days before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the missiles, fired from Jagang Province, flew approximately 250 kilometers before landing in the sea, with the country condemning the action as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions. South Korea's Acting President, Choi Sang-mok, emphasized a strong response and the need for heightened readiness to counter further provocations. This missile test follows a recent intermediate-range hypersonic missile launch on January 6, indicating an ongoing strategy by North Korea to showcase its military capabilities. In response to these developments, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken underscored the importance of trilateral cooperation among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan to counter North Korea's threats. The launches reflect escalating tensions in the region as global powers navigate North Korea's advancing missile and nuclear programs.