North Korea's Bold Missile Test: New Heights, New Allies

North Korea's longest intercontinental ballistic missile test highlights potential military cooperation with Russia, raising global concerns. The test follows allegations of North Korean troop deployment to Russia, possibly in exchange for military technology. This development underscores an intensified arms race against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

In a provocative move, North Korea launched what is believed to be its longest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test on Thursday, amid concerns that the nation may seek advanced missile technology from Russia. This technology exchange could occur in return for North Korean troops supporting Russia in its war in Ukraine.

The missile, launched on a steep angle near Pyongyang, landed 300 km west of Japan's Hokkaido after recording the longest ICBM flight time for North Korea. This display of military strength comes on the heels of South Korea's announcement of potential further ICBM tests or nuclear activities from North Korea around the U.S. presidential election.

International outrage ensued rapidly from South Korea, Japan, and the U.S., especially as reports circulated of North Korea sending 11,000 troops to aid Russia. Neither Pyongyang nor Moscow has verified these deployments, but the developments raise alarms about heightened regional security threats and potential shifts in military alliances.

(With inputs from agencies.)