When North Korea fires off another missile test, the world takes notice. And the UK? It’s making one thing clear: it won’t stand by quietly.
In a written statement, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that it is actively monitoring North Korea’s ballistic missile activity, including the short-range launches that took place on 14 January. The announcement came in response to a parliamentary query from Democratic Unionist Party MP Jim Shannon (Strangford), who questioned what impact these tests might have on UK policy.
Luke Pollard, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Defence, wasted no time in addressing the concern. He reinforced Britain’s stance, stating that these missile tests “all violate UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCR)” and that the UK remains unwavering in its commitment to upholding international law.
Calling Out Violations, Standing Firm on Sanctions
“The UK remains committed to calling out all violations of UNSCRs,” Pollard asserted, adding that Britain will continue working with its allies to enforce UN-approved sanctions on North Korea.
North Korea’s ballistic missile programme has long been a source of anxiety, not just for its neighbours, but for the international community as a whole. With global efforts aimed at curbing its development, UK officials have reaffirmed their view that these tests threaten both regional stability and the wider international security framework.
Diplomatic Pressure, No New Policy, For Now
Although no immediate policy shifts were announced, the Ministry of Defence’s statement underscores the UK’s broader strategy: working in close coordination with allies to maintain diplomatic pressure on North Korea, enforce sanctions, and keep the goal of denuclearisation firmly in sight.
For Britain, silence is not an option. As missile tests continue, the UK is standing its ground, calling out violations, reinforcing international law, and ensuring that North Korea’s actions don’t go unchecked.
