North Korea fires ballistic missiles as Kim Jong-un scheduled to meet Putin in Russia

By Betul Yuruk

North Korea fired at least two ballistic missiles off its east coast on Wednesday, according to the South Korean military.

Japan's coast guard also confirmed the missile launches.

They came as the North Korean leader traveled to Russia to meet with President Vladimir Putin.

Kim left Pyongyang on board his special train late Sunday and Russian officials confirmed his arrival in their country on Tuesday for a rare summit.

US officials believe that talks between Putin and Kim will center on North Korea providing artillery and rockets to Russia amid concerns about an arms deal that is feared will fuel Russia's war against Ukraine.

North Korea has carried out numerous missile tests this year in violation of United Nations sanctions.

The UN Security Council has imposed military and economic sanctions on North Korea since 2006 over its nuclear program.