The U.S. Department of Defense has urged North Korea to refrain from provocative actions that might aggravate tensions in the region.

Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman’s remarks Wednesday come amid reports that Pyongyang is gearing up for another long-range missile test.

Whitman said missile testing by the North would be harmful to the ongoing diplomatic efforts within the six-party nuclear talks.

State Department spokesman Robert Wood told reporters that the U.S. remains concerned about some of North Korea’s behavior, and has encouraged it not to take any steps that would create any kind of regional tensions.

Wood added that the U.S. will send a delegation to a six-party working group meeting that will open in Russia next Thursday. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Alex Arvizu is expected to lead the team.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates told reporters earlier in the week that the U.S. will make preparations to shoot down the North Korean missile, should Pyongyang proceed with its test launch.