North Korea may prepare nuclear tests and launch missile capable of reaching US

According to South Korean intelligence, North Korea has likely finished preparations for a seventh nuclear test and is close to testing a long-range missile. This missile could potentially reach United States territory.

Intelligence also found that some advanced units of North Korean forces deployed to Russia have arrived at the front. They are preparing to advance in the Kursk region, where Russia has struggled to repel Ukrainian incursions.

Intelligence believes that North Korea has completed preparations for a nuclear test at its Punggye-ri site in the northeastern city. The detonation is likely to occur in Tunnel No. 3. It is worth recalling that North Korea conducted its sixth and last nuclear test in 2017.

Signs have also been observed of preparations for a test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) intended to reach the US mainland. Preparation will include positioning of the missile and its carrier, with the test potentially occurring sometime in November.

Nuclear threats from North Korea and Russia

Earlier, we reported that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin had proposed expanding the list of conditions for nuclear weapon use. He seeks to pressure Western countries and Ukraine's partners.

However, Time magazine noted that Western leaders have ceased to fear Russia’s nuclear threats and are increasingly outspoken in their support for Ukraine.

By the end of September, North Korea seemed to echo Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats.

Recently, the Russian Federation began nuclear exercises, likely aimed at pressuring the US and Ukraine’s partners.

For further details, see RBC-Ukraine’s report "Putin's nuclear exercises: What it means and whether it's related to US election."