North Korea Fires Suspected Cruise Missile Toward Sea, Japan Confirms Detection

The Korean People’s Army launched a missile that Japanese defense officials identified as a likely cruise missile on Monday afternoon, according to a statement from Japan’s Ministry of Defense. Radar and satellite tracking showed the projectile traveling eastward over the Sea of Japan before descending into the water beyond the Japanese exclusive economic zone. While North Korea has not yet issued an official statement, state media hinted at a “defensive drill” aimed at “protecting sovereignty.” The United States and South Korea condemned the launch, calling for restraint and urging the North to adhere to United Nations Security Council resolutions.