nuclear test program

A federal compensation fund has approved $909 million in payments for victims of nuclear radiation exposure. The payouts go to people sickened by nuclear testing or work in the nuclear weapons industry, a long-running program that compensates downwinders, uranium miners and others harmed by Cold War-era activities.

North Korea announced on Sunday that it had tested cluster-bomb warheads for its tactical ballistic missiles the day before, describing it as the latest in a series of weapons tests by the nuclear-armed state. The announcement adds to regional concern over Pyongyang's accelerating missile development program.

The United States and South Korea, joined by partner nations, have reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing international sanctions against North Korea. The coordinated effort targets Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, which remain under U.N. sanctions. The announcement underscores continued allied pressure on North Korea despite stalled denuclearization talks and ongoing weapons tests by the regime.

A 24,000-ton nuclear submarine has launched a Bulava ballistic missile, a weapon reported to have a range of 5,160 miles. The test demonstrates the long-range strike capability carried aboard the massive submarine, one of the largest of its class. The launch is drawing attention amid ongoing scrutiny of major powers' strategic nuclear forces and weapons testing programs.