Thread by @WomenCrossDMZ

1/ North Korea’s long-range cruise missile test should surprise no one. North Korea says it’s another means of deterrence against “the military maneuvers of the hostile forces.” Let’s remember some crucial context: 🧵
nytimes.com/2021/09/13/wor…

2/ The US just held nine days of joint military exercises with S Korea in August. One study found that these exercises don’t deter N Korea but in fact incite “provocative rhetoric and actions.” N Korea views them as a “serious threat” to their security.
reuters.com/world/skorea-u…

3/ S Korea recently tested its first submarine-launched ballistic missile. “SLBMs have been developed by the US, Russia, China, Britain, France, India, and N Korea. Those countries also have nuclear weapons, which have typically been used to arm SLBMs.” reuters.com/world/asia-pac…

4/ Earlier this year, the US lifted restrictions on S Korea’s ability to build more powerful ballistic missiles. N Korea reacted angrily to the restrictions removal, ​calling it “a stark reminder of the US hostile policy.”
nytimes.com/2021/05/31/wor…

5/ This never-ending arms race is dangerous and costly — and yet another reason why we need to officially end the Korean War with a peace agreement! #koreapeacenow
koreapeacenow.org/take-action/un…