WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — Earlier in the day, officials in Seoul said that Pyongyang had launched two ballistic missiles from the western area of Sukchun into the Sea of Japan. South Korean officials pointed out the second missile appeared to have exploded in mid-air.
"We are aware of reports that North Korea did conduct a couple of launches into the Sea of Japan," Earnest stated. "The United States, as we always do, is closely monitoring the situation on the Korean Peninsula. Launches using ballistic missile technology are a clear violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions."
The reported launch comes a day after the Obama administration announced a new round of sanctions targeting North Korea’s trade in metal, graphite, coal and software; revenue sent by workers abroad; and blocking property and interests in property of the North Korean government.
Earnest urged North Korea to refrain from actions that further raise tensions in the region and to focus on fulfilling its international obligations.
