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North Korea has reported the launch of two short-range ballistic missiles, asserting that these tests were intended to simulate nuclear strikes on military targets in South Korea. This move is seen as a response to the deployment of US strategic bombers in the region and occurs during the annual military drills carried out by the US and South Korea.

Warning against US Deployment

According to North Korean state media, these missile tests were conducted to caution the United States against positioning strategic bombers near its territory. The country has expressed its concerns over what it perceives as a provocative action by the US. The reported missile launches took place along the east coast of North Korea around midnight, as reported by South Korean media. This timing coincides with the annual military exercises between the US and South Korea, which North Korea consistently finds distressing.

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Annual Drills and North Korea's Reaction

The joint military drills by Washington and Seoul have historically provoked North Korea. The country views these exercises as a rehearsal for an impending war and has consistently criticized them. The missile launches appear to be a response to these ongoing military activities.

Intent of the Drills

North Korea's army has declared that the missile launches were part of a "tactical nuclear strike drill simulating scorched earth strikes at major command centres and operational airfields" in South Korea. The primary aim of this exercise, as stated by North Korean authorities, is to send a strong message to their perceived enemies, who continue to engage in military activities near their borders despite repeated warnings.

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Regional Reactions

South Korea's unification ministry has strongly condemned North Korea for openly disclosing its intentions to attack the South. They have emphasized that North Korea's increased military posturing will result in resolute responses from South Korea, the US, and Japan. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has also criticized the missile launches, stating that they endanger both regional peace and global stability.