The Facts
Following a three-day meeting of the country's ruling party on Sunday, North Korea — via its state media KCNA — has described a bungled satellite launch last month as its “gravest failure” of the year.
Without clearly defining who spoke at the meeting, it was reported that the officials who “irresponsibly” prepared the launch were “bitterly” critiqued.
The Spin
Pro-North Korea narrative
The development of reconnaissance satellites is essential to North Korea’s military strength. With the increasing instability of the Korean Peninsula due to hostile foreign actors, such a step forward will be necessary in the near future in order to protect the nation and increase the strength of the state’s deterrents.
Anti-North Korea Narrative
Whatever the reasons for the satellite launch, the move was a clear violation of UN Security Council Resolutions. The launch was unacceptable, and North Korea must give up its global ambitions and face additional sanctions for its continued aggressive actions.