North Korean ICBM test invites US sanctions, brings Japan and South Korea closer
The US imposed sanctions on five North Korean and Russian organisations as well as one entity in China on Thursday after Pyongyang fired its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) after 2017. Announcing the sanctions, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said: "The United States today announced sanctions on five entities and individuals located in Russia and the DPRK, and one entity in the People's Republic of China (PRC) for proliferation activities under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act". Price said the measures are part of American efforts to prevent North Korea advance its missile programme and "highlight the negative role Russia plays on the world stage as a proliferator to programs of concern", reported The Korea Times. Meanwhile, the ICBM tested by North Korea flew 1,100 km for around one hour and fell in Japanese waters, increasing distrust among neighbours--Japan, South Korea and North Korea. The missile was report