North Korea claims it has successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) for the first time, saying the weapon could "reach anywhere in the world."
Tuesday morning's missile test, which was conducted on the orders of the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, reached a height of 2,802 kilometers (1741 miles), according to state broadcaster Korea Central Television (KCTV).
"As a strongest nuclear state with the best ICBM rockets, North Korea will end the US nuclear war threats and defense peace and stability of the Korean peninsula," the announcer said on air.
North Korea often times its missile tests to have maximum geopolitical impact and Tuesday's looked to be no exception, coming on the July 4 holiday in the US, ahead of the G20 meeting later this week and after US President Donald Trump spoke with Japanese and Chinese leaders Sunday about the North Korea threat.
A missile capable of reaching the United States topped with a nuclear warhead is thought to be Pyongyang's ultimate goal.