Description: North Korean state media, KCNA, has reported on the successful test of the newest strategic cruise missiles. The test of North Korean weapons was also followed by pledges and statements from Kim Jong Un in his reaffirmation on taking a tougher stance on the US if they don’t recognize North Korea’s sovereignty. The strategic cruise missile tests were also interpreted as a response from the North Korean government to recent military drills in the region jointly conducted by the US and South Korea.
Impact: With North Korea’s nuclear capabilities and enhanced level of new weapons and military exercises, the raising tensions are a serious threat which could seriously impact regional security. US President Donald Trump has stated intentions to meet with Kim Jong Un, but that had little to no impact to North Korea’s regional geopolitical and geostrategic aspirations. The de escalation of tensions would be possible if Trump delivers on his intentions to establish elemental levels of relations with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. With the enclosed political system and assimilated civil and societal sectors, North Korea still poses one of the greatest threats in the Indo – Pacific theater.