In a recent development, North Korea has voiced its strong disapproval of the potential sale of U.S. missiles to Japan and South Korea. It has labeled the possible arms sale as a serious threat to regional peace and stability, and an instigator of a new arms race.

What Happened: The North Korean defense ministry issued a statement, broadcasted by the KCNA news agency, warning of increased measures to establish deterrence and respond to regional instability, which it blames on the U.S. and its allies, Reuters reported.

“We warn that the more the United States profits from indiscriminate arms sales, the more it would have to pay for the security crisis,” North Korea’s statement said.