North Korea fires multiple missiles hours ahead of US Election 2024

North Korea Fires Missiles Before US Election: In a bold move, North Korea launched multiple short-range missiles just hours before the United States goes to the polls for the 2024 presidential election. Analysts believe the missile test is both a statement against joint air exercises involving South Korea, the US, and Japan, and a demonstration of North Korea’s military strength at a critical geopolitical moment.

Missiles launched amid heightened tensions

On Tuesday morning, North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles from its eastern coast. This show of force coincided with North Korea's condemnation of military drills conducted jointly by the US, Japan, and South Korea. Japan's Defense Minister, Gen Nakatani, reported that the missiles, at least seven in total, reached an altitude of approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) and traveled around 400 kilometers, ultimately landing outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone in the sea. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff noted that the missiles were fired at approximately 7:30 AM local time from the Sariwon area, south of Pyongyang.

North Korea’s justification for the missile test

State media outlet KCNA quoted Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who condemned the military exercises by the US and its allies as provocations that justify North Korea's nuclear advancements. Analysts indicate that this missile test serves dual purposes: protesting the allied air drills and highlighting North Korea's growing military capabilities ahead of the US election.

Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies, remarked, “If the ICBM was meant for the US, the latest ballistic missiles are for South Korea.” He emphasized North Korea's strategic intent to draw global attention and deflect criticism about its close military cooperation with Russia.

Global responses to North Korea’s missile launch

The United States has been closely consulting with South Korea, Japan, and other allies to address North Korea’s actions. Meanwhile, the US military is actively monitoring developments in the region. This missile test follows North Korea’s recent launch of the Hwasong-19, a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, which has raised further global concerns.

Adding to the geopolitical complexity, North Korea’s latest missile launch took place against the backdrop of a surprise meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui. Observers worry this meeting may signal a deepening relationship between North Korea and Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.