**North Korea Tests Missile to Show Nuclear Readiness**
North Korea has conducted a test launch of strategic cruise missiles. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported this on February 28.
According to KCNA, the missile exercise was aimed at warning enemies that North Korea is ready to attack in any space and has various nuclear operation means. This comes as South Korea prepares for joint exercises with the US in March.
**Tensions Rise**
The test launch shows that tensions on the Korean peninsula are rising. North Korea has been testing missiles, including nuclear-capable ones, to warn its neighbors, particularly South Korea and the US.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch and ordered his military to be ready for a full-scale nuclear strike. He called it “the most perfect deterrence.”
**Russia-Ukraine Conflict**
Meanwhile, in Ukraine, Russian forces have been trying to cross into the country but have been repelled. The conflict is ongoing.
Ukrainian officials say that up to 12,000 North Korean troops were deployed to support Russian forces last fall. South Korea believes more troops may be sent this year.
**Corruption Scandal**
In Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, a corruption scandal has led to the dismissal of several officials, including Petro Olenych, the deputy head of the city administration.
**Global Response**
The international community is watching the situation closely. European leaders are expected to discuss defense and security guarantees for Ukraine at a summit on March 6.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
