Via Reuters early this morning - Officials have learned that North Korea has conducted its third nuclear test. Despite U.N. Resolutions condemning these tests, North Korea proceeded with the tests stating the test was an act of self-defense against “U.S. hostility” and threatened further, stronger steps if necessary.

China, North Korea’s major ally, joined the U.S. and Japan in condemning the tests. A state news agency reported that the explosion in this test was more powerful than the ones conducted in 2006 and 2009.

The White House released a statement early Tuesday morning calling the test a “highly provocative act”.