North Korean missile test keeps tensions raised
Medium-range missile exploded seconds after launch, but Pyongyang’s act of defiance could lead to further US pressure on China, observers say
Tensions on the Korean peninsula were heightened on Sunday when Pyongyang tested a missile, which exploded soon after its launch but which analysts say could put further pressure on China.
The failed launch from North Korea’s east coast came a day after North Korea held a grand military parade, and hours before US Vice-President Mike Pence’s arrival in South Korea.
Top Chinese diplomat Yang Jiechi and US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson talked on the phone after the launch, Xinhua reported. Yang said the two sides should continue dialogue to put Sino-US relations on track, Xinhua said, but gave no details of their discussions on North Korea.
Pence said the launch had underscored the risks facing the region. US National Security Adviser General H.R. McMaster said Pyongyang’s “threatening behaviour” could not go on.
But a US foreign policy adviser travelling with Pence appeared less concerned, saying the test of what was believed to be a medium-range missile had been expected and that it exploded seconds after its launch.