Pyongyang: North Korea conducted a test of a strategic cruise missile, marking the first missile test since Donald Trump returned to the White House. The test was reported by state media KCNA on Sunday. According to Anadolu Agency, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized that the development of the nation's military capabilities is key to maintaining peace and stability. The strategic cruise missiles reportedly flew a distance of 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), successfully hitting their targets without compromising the safety of neighboring countries. Kim Jong Un reiterated the importance of enhancing the regime's military deterrence to ensure lasting peace. This recent test is the third missile launch by North Korea in 2025, following previous tests of short-range ballistic missiles and an intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile earlier in January. The missile test coincides with Trump's new term, during which he has expressed a willingness to renew dialogue with Pyongyang. Trump and Kim previou sly met three times during Trump's first term in office, including two summits aimed at addressing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. In response to recent joint air drills conducted by South Korea and the United States, North Korea's Foreign Ministry issued a statement urging for the toughest counteractions against the US. The ministry condemned the drills as a "grave challenge" to peace, asserting that they threaten North Korea's sovereignty and regional stability.