That, combined with irritation over the oil deliveries, may have spurred today's announcement, he said. Pyongyang's announcement is not likely to win any friends in Washington. The United States and North Korea began talks last year in which American negotiators hope to persuade Pyongyang to freeze its missile program and join an international agreement to restrict missile proliferation. North Korea's missiles have long been a matter of grave concern in Asia. Defense analysts say North Korea has since developed the Rodong-2 missile, which has a range of 1,500 miles, putting virtually all of Northeast Asia, including the 80 million residents of greater Tokyo, within striking distance.
Analysts believe North Korea also is developing missiles with even longer ranges.
North Korea's provocative statements about its missile program come as Pyongyang has been more receptive and open on other issues. In recent months, relations between North and South Korea have thawed somewhat, especially on economic matters. For example, Chung Ju Yung, founder and honorary chairman of the Hyundai conglomerate, entered North Korea today with a donation of 500 cattle for the impoverished nation. United States officials have said the program was intended to produce weapons. The rods contain plutonium that can be used in nuclear weapons.