In a grand display of military might, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un unveiled the Hwasong-20, a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), during a massive military parade in Pyongyang. The event, held on Friday night to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party, showcased North Korea’s most advanced weapons, including the untested Hwasong-20, described by state media as the nation’s “most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system.” The parade, attended by high-profile foreign dignitaries, underscored Kim’s growing diplomatic influence and his unwavering commitment to expanding North Korea’s nuclear arsenal, capable of targeting the U.S. mainland and regional adversaries. Kim, in a speech, emphasized the need for his military to become an “invincible entity” to counter all threats, though he refrained from directly mentioning the U.S. or South Korea. The Hwasong-20, mounted on an 11-axle launcher truck, represents a significant leap in North Korea’s missile technology, with its solid-fuel engine offering greater mobility and faster launch capabilities compared to older liquid-fueled models. The parade also featured shorter-range ballistic, cruise, and supersonic missiles, which North Korea claims can deliver nuclear strikes against South Korea. The event highlighted Kim’s efforts to strengthen ties with key allies, including China and Russia, as he seeks to break out of international isolation and counter U.S.-led Western influence. High-level visitors, such as Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary To Lam, attended the celebrations, signaling Kim’s increasingly assertive foreign policy. Kim’s recent meetings with Medvedev and Li focused on deepening strategic partnerships, with Medvedev praising North Korean soldiers for their role in supporting Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Kim has prioritized strengthening ties with Moscow, sending troops and weapons to aid Putin’s campaign. The parade and diplomatic engagements reflect Kim’s dual strategy of bolstering North Korea’s military capabilities while expanding its international alliances.
North Korea displays new long-range missile at military parade celebrating Kim Jong Un’s leadership
