Tensions rise as North Korea plans rocket launch this month

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — An international agency says North Korea has declared plans to launch an Earth observation satellite on a rocket later this month.

This kind of rocket launch would cause international outrage because such tests are seen by the United Nations and other critics as covers for banned long-range missile tests meant to further North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.

An official at the London-based International Maritime Organization said North Korea declared that an Earth observation satellite launch would be conducted between Feb. 8 and 25.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because she hadn’t been authorized to speak publicly yet.

Japan’s Kyodo News agency reported that North Korea also notified the Geneva-based International Telecommunication Union “via diplomatic channels” that it will launch a satellite later this month.

The top U.S. diplomat for East Asia said the planned launch would be “an unmistakable slap in the face” for those arguing against more sanctions in response to its latest nuclear test.

Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel said Tuesday that a launch that uses ballistic missile technology would be another violation of a U.N. ban and strengthens the argument for the international community to impose “real consequences” on North Korea for destabilizing behavior.

The U.S. has been pushing for the imposition of sanctions following the Jan. 6 nuclear test. China, the North’s only major ally, has condemned that test but is more reluctant to impose sanctions