North Korea

The announcement came little more than an hour after the U.S. Geological Survey reported a magnitude 4.7 seismic disturbance at the site of North Korea's first nuclear test -- in October 2006.
North Korea's Korean Central News Agency said Monday's test was conducted "as part of the measures to bolster up its nuclear deterrent for self-defense in every way."
"We are gravely concerned by North Korea's claims," the U.S. State Department said in a statement.
The State Department said it was analyzing the data, but that the Geological Survey's report of a seismic event was "consistent with a test."
The White House -- which less than three weeks ago announced a new diplomatic effort to restart stalled talks with North Korea about its nuclear program -- said the test was in "blatant defiance" of the U.N. Security Council.
The six-party talks are aimed at persuading North Korea to dismantle its nuclear program. Along with North Korea and the United States, the participants are: China, Japan, Russia and South Korea.
"The danger posed by North Korea's threatening activities warrants action by the international community," the White House said in a statement early Tuesday.