Pentagon to Al Mayadeen: We will defend allies against DPRK threats

• 

The spokesperson of the US Department of Defense (DoD), Pat Ryder, welcomed Wednesday any efforts to promote a positive and constructive dialogue with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Ryder's comments came in response to a question by Al Mayadeen correspondent and revolved around the Pentagon currently being focused on working with US allies and partners in the region to prevent any threat from the DPRK. In that regard, Ryder affirmed Washington's commitment to defend its allies within the Korean peninsula and throughout the region.

The spokesperson also urged Pyongyang to end what he described as "destabilizing actions."

As for the diplomatic talks between the US and the DPRK, Ryder said that "In terms of diplomatic relations with North Korea, I think that's really a question for the State Department to address."

As for the work of the DoD, Ryder said "Clearly our focus as the Department of Defense is working with our partners and allies in the region to deter and you know, certainly, I think it goes without saying that any constructive positive communication is welcome. Firing missiles is not a good way to do that." 

Ryder's allegations and comments come in response to the DPRK launching of an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile over Japan on Tuesday.

Regionally, the US responded by conducting yet another military drill with South Korea. The two countries' fighter jets conducted precision bombing drills, according to Seoul's military.

During the drills, however, there were reports of a failed missile that caused panic in South Korea's coastal city of Gangneung earlier on Wednesday.

It is worth noting that there were no reported injuries following the malfunctioning missile.

Officials in Seoul apologized after a South Korean missile failed and crashed near Gangneung during one of the drills on Wednesday.

Read more: US and S. Korea conduct precision drills in response to the DPRK