North Korea launches short-range ballistic missile ahead of US election

Just before the U.S. election, North Korea fired at least one ballistic missile into the eastern sea, with uncertainty on the details of the launch. This comes after Kim Jong Un oversaw a test of an intercontinental ballistic missile aimed at the U.S. mainland. The U.S. responded with a show of force alongside South Korea and Japan. Experts doubt the effectiveness of North Korea’s claimed “world’s strongest” ICBM. South Korean officials expect more military displays from North Korea around the U.S. election and warn of a possible seventh nuclear test. Tensions between the Koreas are high, with Kim flaunting his nuclear weapons program and supporting Russia in Ukraine. South Korea, the U.S., and Japan are increasing joint military exercises and updating nuclear deterrence plans in response.