North Korea fires possible ballistic missiles toward sea

North Korea launched approximately ten short-range ballistic missiles towards the sea on Thursday, according to South Korea's military. The projectiles were reportedly fired from Pyongyang area, as stated by Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff. This incident was also confirmed by Japan's Prime Minister's Office and the country's Coast Guard.

The event occurred shortly after US President Donald Trump announced his intention to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later in the year. The missile launches coincide with ongoing military drills between South Korea and the US, which are scheduled to conclude on Friday following Trump's directive to decrease US involvement.

North Korea has consistently denounced such joint exercises as rehearsals for invasion, often retaliating with missile launches. Trump referred to these drills as "inappropriate and hostile" in a recent statement on Truth Social, asserting that they place a burden on the United States while the North has been unthreatening and respectful during Trump's presidency.

Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of Kim Jong Un, dismissed Trump's move, stating that the reduced duration and size of the drills do not alter their provocative and aggressive nature. She warned, "If the US believes its recent measure qualifies as good faith, they will not receive the desired response."