North Korea tested another intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that appears to have the range to hit major US cities.
What is the significance?
If North Korea's claims about the test are true, Pyongyang may be even further advanced in its missile program than was previously thought.
If the missile were fired on a a flatter, standard trajectory, it would have major US cities like Los Angeles, Denver and Chicago well within its range.
It even has the ability to reach as far as New York City and Boston.
South Korea's joint chiefs of staff said they estimate that the ICBM is more advanced than one launched earlier this July.
But the test cannot determine how heavy a payload the missile was carrying in its warhead. The heavier the payload, the shorter the range.
Also, despite the ongoing tests, experts believe the North does not yet have the capability to miniaturise a nuclear warhead, fit it on to a long-range missile, and ensure it is protected until delivery to the target.
However, this latest missile test shows the US’ actions are not changing North Korea's behavior and it's time for Donald Trump to articulate a comprehensive strategy.
What was the reaction from major powers?
Kim Jong Un is quoted as saying that the whole US mainland is now within North Korea's reach.
US President Trump condemned North Korea's launch and said it only threatens the world, further isolate North Korea, weaken its economy, and deprive its people.
Hours later, the US and South Korean military conducted a live fire exercise as a show of force in response to the missile test.
China issued a statement condemning the missile launch and asked Pyongyang to "stop taking actions that would escalate tensions" on the Korean Peninsula.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said China and Russia need to do more to stop North Korea's missile program.
