US Department of Defense Condemns North Korea's ICBM Launch... Calls for Diplomatic Dialogue

Patrick Ryder, Department of Defense Spokesperson.
Photo by AP News Agency

On the 21st (local time), the U.S. Department of Defense repeatedly condemned North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch and urged diplomatic engagement.

Patrick Ryder, spokesperson for the Department of Defense, said at a briefing that day regarding any additional analysis of North Korea's recent ICBM launch, "We have condemned North Korea's missile launches and security-threatening actions," and added, "We will not comment on any additional information."

Ryder further stated, "We maintain a diplomatic approach toward North Korea and urge North Korea to engage in dialogue," reaffirming the existing position that "the United States has no hostile intent toward North Korea and has made this very clear."

He emphasized, "Our focus is on regional security, and to that end, we are working closely with allies including South Korea and Japan."

Earlier, on the 18th, North Korea launched a missile presumed to be the solid-fuel-based ICBM 'Hwasong-18' into the East Sea. State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong-un observed the launch on site, accompanied by his daughter Kim Ju-ae and spouse Ri Sol-ju. This marks the third launch of the Hwasong-18 by North Korea, following those in April and July.

After observing the launch exercise, Chairman Kim reportedly said, according to North Korean media, "This was an opportunity to clearly show that we are swiftly prepared for any actions and what choices we will make when Washington makes a wrong decision against us."

He also stated, "When the enemies continue to make wrong choices, we must clearly respond strongly with offensive actions in a more evolved and more threatening manner."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.