North Korea has launched another weapons test after new US sanctions over its missile program. North Korea fired at least one initially unidentified projectile on Friday, South Korea's general staff said. The bullet flew east. How far it flew and where it landed was initially unclear. Japan's Ministry of Defense confirmed the launch. According to reports from the Japanese broadcaster NHK, the ministry suspects that North Korea may have carried out another test with a ballistic missile. UN resolutions prohibit the self-declared nuclear power North Korea from testing such missiles that can carry a nuclear warhead.
On Wednesday, the US Treasury Department decided, among other things, to impose sanctions on five North Koreans accused of procuring goods for their country's mass destruction and missile programs.
The assets of the individuals concerned in the United States or under American control will be blocked as a result.
In addition, the United States wants to enforce new sanctions against North Korea through the United Nations.
The United States is responding to six missile tests conducted by North Korea since September.
North Korea's foreign minister reacted to the new sanctions with initially vague threats.
If the United States seeks confrontation, North Korea will provide a "stronger and clearer response," a spokesman was quoted as saying by state media on Friday.
He accused the United States of provocation.
North Korea last conducted a missile test on Tuesday.
According to their own statements, a hypersonic rocket was tested.
With such weapons, a hypersonic glide missile can be launched from a ballistic missile.
Hypersonic weapons are difficult to intercept because of their high speed and maneuverability.