North Korea said Saturday the U.S. suspension of food aid is an over-reaction to Pyongyang's planned rocket launch.

North Korea announced in February it would temporarily suspend nuclear tests, long-range ballistic missile launches and nuclear activities. In return, Washington, pledged to provide the North with 240,000 metric tons of nutritional assistance.

Washington considers the planned North Korea launch to be a violation of that agreement, saying Pyongyang is seeking to test long-range missile technology.

North Korea says it is sending a satellite into orbit for peaceful purposes.