North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over a massive military parade in Pyongyang late Friday, showcasing the country’s newest Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which state media described as its “strongest nuclear strategic weapon system.”
The event, held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, featured thousands of troops, military hardware, and flyovers, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Foreign dignitaries, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnamese Communist Party chief To Lam, attended the celebrations, underscoring North Korea’s growing alignment with China and Russia amid global geopolitical tensions.
The Hwasong-20, an apparent upgrade in North Korea’s long-range missile program, is believed to be capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. Analysts say, however, that doubts remain about the missile’s guidance precision and the ability of its warhead to survive atmospheric re-entry.
“The Hwasong-20 represents, for the moment, the apotheosis of North Korea’s ambitions for long-range nuclear delivery capabilities,” said Ankit Panda of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
“It is likely designed for multiple warheads, which would strain U.S. missile defense systems and enhance Kim’s deterrence posture.”
In his speech, Kim praised the country’s military for its “heroism” and called for continued expansion of its defense capabilities.
“Our army should continue to grow into an invincible entity that destroys all threats,” he declared, adding that North Korean troops’ efforts would extend to “outposts of socialist construction.”
Following the parade, Kim held talks with Medvedev, who lauded the “sacrifice of North Korean soldiers” fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, remarks that drew international scrutiny.
Kim responded by expressing hope for deeper cooperation and “diverse exchanges” between Pyongyang and Moscow to achieve “common goals.”
Friday’s parade marked the latest display of North Korea’s advancing weapons technology, as Kim continues to bolster ties with Beijing and Moscow while defying international sanctions and pressure over his nuclear ambitions.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
