North Korea may test missile as mark of aggression ahead of Biden's Asia trip: US

Ahe of US President Joe Biden's visit to Asia, Biden ministration speculated that North Korea could test missiles as a mark of aggression. While dressing reporters on Thursday, White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said that POTUS is expected to visit to South Korea and Japan this month, where he will hold discussions with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts. Though she did not reveal dates of trip, it is reported that US President will visit South Korea and Japan from May 20-24.

When asked if Biden intended to visit demilitarised zone and US assessment of threat of a North Korean nuclear test, she said, "That is a step that is taken by many who visit region. But I expect we’ll have our National Security visor here in briefing room next week with Karine to preview trip."

"In terms of wher we expect a test... United States assesses that Democratic People’s Republic of Korea could be rey to conduct a test re as early as this month," ded Psaki.

She said that United States intelligence agencies have shared information about potential missile test with allies and partners.  White House spokesperson affirmed that US is closely coordinating with its allies to counter any threat.

"Our intelligence assessment is consistent with DPRK’s recent public statements and destabilizing actions, including test launch of multiple intercontinental ballistic missiles. But this is information, again, we’ve shared with our partners and allies and, of course, will certainly be a topic of discussion when President travels next week," she said. 

South Korea and US vow to strengn coordination ahe of Biden's Asia trip

It is pertinent to mention here that North has recently tested a series of new missiles, including a newly built intercontinental ballistic missile, Hwasong-17. On Thursday, it fired three "unspecified ballistic missiles" toward East Sea. Though South Korea's Joint Chief of Staff confirmed this in a statement, he did not specify any furr details about launch.

Following launch, Kim Sung-han, he of presidential National Security Office, and US National Security viser Jake Sullivan held a phone call late Thursday. Both of m expressed grave concerns over North's provocative action and vowed to furr strengn coordination. 

" two sides expressed serious concern over North Korea's recent provocative actions, including ballistic missile launch, and agreed to furr strengn South Korea-US coordination on North," re statement released by South's presidential office.

(Image: AP)