North Korea threatens the US with 'a nuclear strike' if provoked
North Korean newspaper Rodong has made a statement that tests of the "Hwasong-12" ballistic missile "demonstrated the ability of the DPRK to strike the continental United States at any time."
"If Washington dares to commit a provocation against Pyongyang, the DPRK will strike a just nuclear strike that will turn the US into ashes," the article published by the newspaper states.
The newspaper considers it "a bluff and a ridiculous cowardly action by the US to attempt to intimidate the DPRK by means of US strategic nuclear weapons stationed around the Korean Peninsula."
Rodong, expressing the opinion of the leadership of the Labor Party of Korea, recommends that the administration of Donald Trump "abandon hostile policy towards the People's Republic." "Otherwise, Pyongyang's potential for a nuclear strike against the United States will grow faster every day," the article stresses.
The newspaper warns that the DPRK will "produce more accurate and diverse types of nuclear weapons and their means of delivery until the US makes a reasonable choice."
On May 14, North Korea successfully launched the Hwasong-12 medium-range ballistic missile. According to the KCNA (Korean Central News Agency) the test was conducted to assess the "tactical and technological features of a new type of ballistic missile intended for a large nuclear warhead." The UN Security Council resolutions prohibit the DPRK from any activities related to the development of nuclear weapons and their means of delivery. Pyongyang does not recognize these documents, arguing that the country has every right to strengthen its defenses against the backdrop of Washington's hostile policy.