US Official: North Korea Capable of Striking US Territory with Ballistic Missiles

US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Mark Berkowitz confirmed that North Korea possesses the capability to target US territory with intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), as Washington moves to restructure its missile defense strategy to counter evolving threats.

This came in statements made by Berkowitz during a hearing before a subcommittee of the Senate Armed Services Committee, according to the Miami Herald.

Berkowitz said that North Korea's growing nuclear and missile programs represent a "direct and increasing threat" to the United States, its forces, and its allies.

He explained that North Korea's short- and medium-range missiles threaten the United States, South Korea, and Japan, while its ICBMs can reach US territory.

The official also noted that China, Russia, and Iran pose major strategic threats, explaining that China is rapidly expanding its nuclear and missile arsenal, including the development of ICBMs, hypersonic glide vehicles, and advanced launch systems.

He added that Russia maintains a huge and diverse nuclear arsenal, in addition to advanced air and missile defense capabilities, which were partly demonstrated during its military operations in Ukraine.