North Korea Condemns US Missile Sale to South Korea Amid Rising Tensions

• •North Korea condemned a US missile sale to South Korea worth nearly $300 million.
• •The sale is seen by North Korea as a threat to regional stability and a preparation for war.
• •North Korea plans to strengthen its military deterrent in response to US-South Korea cooperation.

On June 13, 2026, North Korea's Foreign Ministry condemned the US approval of a nearly $300 million missile sale to South Korea, warning it would escalate tensions on the Korean peninsula. The statement from North Korea's external policy director-general criticized the strengthening military cooperation between the US and South Korea, which they view as preparation for war. North Korea emphasized that US arms exports are detrimental and vowed to enhance its self-defensive capabilities to maintain regional power balance. The condemnation also targeted South Korean President Lee Jae Myung for a joint statement with EU leaders that labeled North Korea's nuclear status as illegal. This situation reflects ongoing hostilities and the potential for increased military confrontations in the region.