North Korea's missile launches have sparked concern and condemnation from the international community. The recent missile tests included short-range ballistic missiles fired into the sea, marking the latest in a series of provocations from the reclusive regime, which has been pursuing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs despite international sanctions.
According to North Korea, if its missiles are shot down during their test launches over the Pacific Ocean, it will be a "clear declaration of war."
The missile launches were viewed as a provocation by neighboring countries, particularly South Korea and Japan, both of which had been attacked by North Korean missiles in the past. The tests also occurred during a diplomatic deadlock between North Korea and the United States, who have been engaged in on-again, off-again discussions aimed at stopping North Korea's nuclear program.
The missile tests were condemned by the United States and its allies, who called for North Korea to abandon its nuclear and missile programs and return to the negotiating table. The tests also raised concerns about the potential for escalation and renewed tensions on the Korean Peninsula, which has been divided since the end of World War II.
North Korea has stated that its nuclear and missile programs are for self-defense and has reacted angrily to U.S.-South Korean military exercises, portraying them as drills for an invasion.
"If such military response as interception takes place against our tests of strategic weapons, it will be regarded as a clear declaration of war against the DPRK," said Kim Yo Jong, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's powerful sister, in a statement. "The Pacific Ocean does not belong to the dominium of the U.S. or Japan."
North Korea's budget for its nuclear weapons program primarily comes from the country's government resources, including its national budget and state-owned enterprises. The government allocates a significant portion of its resources to the development of its military and nuclear weapons program, even at the expense of other areas such as healthcare and education.
In addition to its domestic resources, North Korea has been accused of illicitly acquiring funding through various means, including cybercrime, counterfeiting, and arms exports. The country has also received aid and economic support from countries such as China and Russia, which have faced criticism for enabling North Korea's nuclear program.
It is difficult to determine the exact sources and amounts of funding for North Korea's nuclear weapons program, as the country's government is highly secretive and operates with limited transparency. However, it is clear that the program is a top priority for the North Korean government, and the country has demonstrated a willingness to take extreme measures to fund and develop its nuclear capabilities.
