North Korean satellite launch fails

North Korea has failed to launch a satellite into orbit, according to US and South Korean military sources.

The much condemned missile launch planned to place a communications satellite into orbit, however, many countries, including the US and Japan, believe that it is a cover for a long range missile test. A US military statement has reported that the missile's payload landed in the Pacific Ocean, whilst North Korean state media has reported that the launch has been successful and that the satellite is transmitting data.

Pyongyang gave prior warning of the launch saying that it was part of a space programme, which they are entitled to under international law. However, US President Barack Obama has called the launch a "provocative" action and added that "North Korea broke the rules once more by testing a rocket that could be used for a long-range missile," and that "this provocation underscores the need for action - not just this afternoon at the UN Security Council, but in our determination to prevent the spread of these weapons." A joint US-EU statement called for North Korea to end it's "policy of threats" which aim to "harm peace and security in North East Asia."