Kim Jong: The new rocket was a gift to the U.S. <x0basards” on Independence Day.

North Korean leader Kim Jong shocked the US on Wednesday after conducting a test of intercstinctical ballistic missiles, saying it was a “gift” for the US “bastars” on their day of independence.

Tuesday's test was also confirmed by US Foreign Minister Rex Tillerson, who said it marked “a new escalation of the threat to the world”.

yesterday's rocket marked a historic moment for the North Korean missile programme, and stepped up concern in Washington over Pyongyang statements for a nuclear missile that could reach the United States.

The North Korean Academy of Science and Defence said the test had turned the isolated state into a safe and powerful nuclear nation that could hit anywhere on Earth”.