North Korea ordered its armed forces on standby and warned on Monday that it will retaliate against anyone seeking to block its planned satellite launch, which many fear will disguise a missile test.
North Korea ordered its armed forces on standby and warned on Monday that it will retaliate against anyone seeking to block its planned satellite launch, which many fear will disguise a missile test.
The threat was the North's latest attempt to escalate tensions on the divided peninsula and a strong sign that the Communist nation intends to push ahead with the launch despite mounting international pressure to drop the plan.
Analysts say Pyongyang is trying to grab President Barack Obama's attention as his administration formulates its North Korea policy.
Today's warning came hours before United States and South Korea kicked off annual war games involving tens of thousands of troops, which the communist nation has condemned as preparations for an invasion.
The joint drills across South Korea began as concerns mounted that Pyongyang could be gearing up to test-fire a long-range missile capable of reaching US territory.
North Korea says it plans to launch a communications satellite, but neighbouring governments believe it is a cover for a missile test.
Analysts have said a launch could come late this month or in early April when the North's new legislature, chosen in Sunday's election, is expected to convene its first meeting to confirm Kim Jong II as leader.
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