Grinning Kim Jong-un declares ‘nuclear-capable missile was a gift' to 'American b******s’

The North Korean dictator told his officials with a broad smile on his face that the US would be displeased with his “package of gifts” on its “Independence Day”, according to nation’s state TV.

The US Defence Department has since confirmed North Korea test launched the ICBM – which some experts believe could reach the eastern coast of the US.

Kim Jong-un, who watched the missile display on monitors from a nearby observation post, reportedly urged his officials to frequently send big and small “gift packages” to the US.

He also declared that the Hwasong-14 ICBM was launched as warning following US’ “military threats”, according to Kim Jong-un’s state media mouthpiece Rodong Sinmum.

The despot hailed the ICBM as a “victory” for North Koreans as he vowed not to negotiate away their nuclear project until President Donald Trump agreed to end his “hostile policy”.

The US and South Korea responded with a show of force against the North, firing missiles just hours after the ICBM launch as part of a military drill.

According to the US Army, the two nations conducted the exercise to counteract North Korea’s “destabilising and unlawful actions”.

The South said the drill was aimed at showcasing the ability to strike at the North’s leadership if necessary.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who ordered the drill, said “the situation was no longer sufficient to respond to the North’s provocation by making statements”, according to his office.