North Korea fires missiles after Trump announces meeting with Kim Jong Un

The launches occurred as South Korea and the United States were conducting a shortened version of their annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises, which Pyongyang has historically condemned as invasion rehearsals. Trump, who expressed a desire to revive his bond with Kim, told reporters on Wednesday that he planned a meeting with the North Korean leader later this year and emphasized the importance of "getting along" with Kim. South Korea's military reported that over 10 short-range ballistic missiles were fired from the Pyongyang area towards the East Sea, flying approximately 300 kilometers.

South Korea's presidential office convened an emergency security meeting, condemning the launches as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions and ordering heightened readiness. Kim Yo Jong, the North Korean leader's sister, stated on Wednesday that her brother had "good memories and feelings" about Trump and that their relationship remained "excellent," though she was unaware of any current communication between them. The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises were scheduled to end earlier than planned at the suggestion of the US side.

The United States maintains about 28,500 troops in South Korea. South Korea's Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back reiterated Seoul's opp