North Korea Shows Off New Missile at Military Parade

During a military parade in Pyongyang on Friday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presented a new long-range intercontinental ballistic missile. The event was notable for the attendance of foreign dignitaries as well.

The missile, named the Hwasong-20, has yet to undergo testing. State media characterized it as possessing the “most powerful strategic nuclear weapons system.” The parade also featured a variety of other munitions including short-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and supersonic missiles, marking the 80th anniversary of the Labor Party’s founding.

Leaders in attendance included Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnamese Communist Party Chairman Lin Lin. Kim emphasized the need for the military to evolve into an “invincible force” to counter threats.

In a conversation with Medvedev, Kim discussed strengthening ties with Russia and acknowledged the sacrifices of North Korean soldiers who fought alongside Russia in Ukraine.

Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, previously expressed strong reservations about U.S. efforts to restart denuclearization talks, suggesting that any pressure from the U.S. would be taken as a “mockery” by North Korea.

Overall, the parade and Kim’s remarks illustrate North Korea’s intent to bolster military capabilities while signaling its strategic alignments with Russia and other nations.