The US has said it is “highly likely” that North Korea is involved in state-sponsored drugs trafficking. The claims, in a State Department report, could add to tensions between the two countries, already in a stand-off over the North’s nuclear plans. The report cited as evidence the 2002 seizure of a ship allegedly carrying up to 125kg (275 pounds) of heroin, and a North Korean party worker’s testimony. The North has denied several previous claims it is involved in drugs trading. US officials and academics have long suspected North Korea was engaging in drugs trafficking as a means of earning hard currency to shore up its failing economy. But this year’s report from the State Department is the strongest-worded yet from the US administration. Full Story