The President spoke by phone with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan last night to discuss North Korea’s recent launch using ballistic missile technology. The two leaders condemned the launch, and they agreed that it represents yet another destabilizing and provocative action by North Korea in flagrant violation of numerous United Nations Security Council resolutions. The President assured Prime Minister Abe that the United States’ commitment to the security of Japan is ironclad and that we will take any steps necessary to defend our allies. ‎The two leaders underscored the importance of a strong and united international response to North Korea’s provocations, including through a robust UN Security Council Resolution.