Mon Jan 05 01:12:03 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Oversees Hypersonic Missile Test, Cites Geopolitical Crisis

Pyongyang – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a test launch of hypersonic missiles on Sunday, state media KCNA reported, emphasizing the need to bolster the country’s nuclear deterrent amidst a “recent geopolitical crisis” and “complicated international events.” The missile launch came just hours before South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed for China for a summit with President Xi Jinping.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) confirmed the drills and stated they were intended to assess readiness, enhance firepower operational skills, and evaluate the operational capabilities of the country’s war deterrent. According to KCNA, the missiles successfully hit targets approximately 1,000km away over the sea east of North Korea.

Kim stressed the importance of maintaining and expanding North Korea’s “strong and reliable nuclear deterrent” in light of the current global environment. The launch followed a statement by Pyongyang condemning recent US actions against Venezuela, including the alleged “abduction” of President Nicolas Maduro, as an encroachment on sovereignty.

Experts suggest the test could be a response to U.S. actions as well as an effort to complicate U.S. and South Korean missile defense systems. A fully functional hypersonic weapon would give North Korea the ability to penetrate these shields. While North Korea has conducted several similar tests in recent years, some experts question the true capabilities of the tested missiles.

The launch comes as North Korea has recently test-fired long-range strategic cruise missiles and new anti-air missiles, and has shown apparent progress in the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine. These activities are seen by observers as a way for Kim to demonstrate progress in weapons development ahead of the ruling Workers’ Party Congress.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is expected to discuss North Korea’s nuclear program with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their summit today, where Lee will call on China to play a “constructive role” in promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula.

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