US and allies condemn unannounced Pacific ballistic missile tests

The United States and approximately 40 allied nations, including Greece, have issued a joint statement condemning recent unannounced ballistic missile tests conducted in the Pacific Ocean. While the statement does not explicitly name China, the timing and location point to a strategic missile test conducted by Chinese armed forces in early July.

The U.S. Department of State noted that conducting tests of missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads without prior warning or detail is “dangerous and disrupts the peace and security of nations located near” the testing sites. The allies highlighted that these recent tests failed to adhere to international rules.

Beijing previously announced a strategic missile test launched from a submarine using a training warhead, which landed in the Pacific. In response, the coalition of nations is calling on all countries, particularly nuclear-armed states, to provide at least 24 hours of advance notice before conducting such tests.