The United States confirmed its support for the Panamanian decision to inspect the North Korean-flagged ship, which was reportedly carrying ballistic missiles and other weapons after departing from Cuba. "The United States commends the actions that the government of Panama has taken in this case," State Department deputy spokesman Patrick Ventrell said during the daily press briefing. "Panama is a close partner of the United States, and we stand ready to cooperate with Panama should they request our assistance," Ventrell added.
