The cannons are already at the border: North Korea's threatening move and the explanation from the South

South Korea's Defense Ministry assesses that North Korea's deployment of old weapon systems near the border is primarily intended to send a threatening message, not necessarily to strengthen its military capabilities. The assessment comes after three armored vehicles carrying self-propelled howitzers were identified heading toward South Korea.

South Korea's Defense Ministry assessed Thursday morning that North Korea's deployment of old weapon systems near the border is a declarative move intended to demonstrate power, not necessarily to strengthen its military capabilities. The assessment comes after three armored vehicles carrying 122mm self-propelled howitzers were identified in the field, directed toward South Korea. Military experts in South Korea noted that the visible positioning of the artillery indicates an attempt to convey a threatening message. The development occurs amid rising tensions between the countries following a mine explosion in the demilitarized zone in September, in which three South Korean soldiers were injured. Seoul accuses Pyongyang of laying the mines and demands an apology, while North Korea rejects the allegations. Meanwhile, North Korea has threatened to reactivate propaganda loudspeakers along the border, and South Korea has proposed military talks to reduce tensions.