N. Korea says it test-fired biggest ICBM, US adds sanctions

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea says it test-fired its biggest-yet intercontinental range ballistic missile under the orders of leader Kim Jong Un, who vowed to expand the North’s “nuclear war deterrent” while preparing for a “long-standing confrontation” with the United States.

The report by North Korean state media on Friday came a day after the militaries of South Korea and Japan said they detected the North launching an ICBM in its first long-range test since 2017.

The United States requested an open Security Council meeting on the launch, anticipated on Friday.

The State Department also said the U.S. imposed fresh sanctions against five entities and individuals in Russia and North Korea over transferring sensitive items to the North’s missile program.