Digital News Report- According to sources in Japan, North Korea has launched a taepodong 2 rocket, which they claim is putting a satellite in orbit. Many feel that the launch is a cover for long-range missile tests. A U.N. Security Council resolution bars North Korea from ballistic missile activity. North Korea has ignored the widespread condemnation of the launch.
State Department spokesman Fred Lash confirmed the launch. He said, “we look on this as a provocative act.” He also stated that the launch happened at 10:30pm EDT.
South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak called an emergency meeting of the Security Council last week in response to the planned launch. Many countries, including the United States and Japan, have openly discouraged the rocket launch. President Obama has stated that the international community would have to take action if the launch occurred. More UN sanctions against North Korea are now expected.
Many suspected that the launch would occur today due to many cameras and radar equipment being turned on by North Korea that morning. The cover over the top of the rocket was also removed, indicating that a launch was expected soon. The launch was originally planned for Saturday, but high winds and cloudy skies caused delays.
Photo: www.kremlin.ru