Japan Govt.: North Korea May Soon Test - Fire Long - Range Missile
Japan's Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo has indicated that North Korea may test-fire a long-range missile, possibly an intercontinental ballistic missile, within a few days.
On Wednesday, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said North Korea may conduct a long-range ballistic missile launch or a nuclear test during President Joe Biden's visit to South Korea and Japan.
Referring to the remark and other media reports on North Korea, Kishi told reporters in Tokyo on Friday that the ministry is sharing information and working with the US government.
He said that the North may be ready to conduct a nuclear test by the end of the month.
Kishi also said it is clear that North Korea intends to continue nuclear and missile development, defying the international community.
The defense minister stressed that Japan will not condone the North's move and will make every effort to gather intelligence and monitor the situation.