In a recent statement, North Korea declared its intention to reinforce its nuclear forces, signaling determination despite international pressure.
Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui has stated that North Korea will maintain its stance on strengthening its nuclear arsenal amid escalating regional tensions.
During a meeting with her Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on Friday, Choe stated that Pyongyang needs to enhance its retaliation capabilities.
“The present circumstances and future threats demand that we enhance our modern strategic nuclear arsenal, offensive weapons, and readiness for nuclear retaliation more than ever before. I assure you again that our country will steadfastly continue strengthening its nuclear capabilities,” she stated.
Choe observed that the situation on the Korean peninsula could turn volatile at any time due to the US and South Korea establishing “an alliance with a nuclear component.” She cautioned that this development might adversely affect not only the peninsula but also Northeast Asia as a whole.
The foreign minister alleged that the US and South Korea are involved in “plots to launch a nuclear strike” against North Korea. She pointed to the arrival of a US strategic submarine in South Korea, along with several flights of American nuclear bombers over the Korean peninsula, as evidence supporting her claim.
Pyongyang has consistently criticized joint military exercises carried out by the United States and South Korea, describing them as a potential prelude to aggression.
READ ALSO: North Korea Threatens to Declare War Amid Rising Tensions
On Friday, the EU and Japan established a groundbreaking security and defense agreement. Josep Borrell, the EU’s foreign policy chief, referred to this partnership as “the first of its kind” that Brussels has entered into with any nation in the Asia-Pacific region. He hailed it as a “historic and very timely step,” considering current circumstances in both regions. The pact focuses on enhancing collaborative development of military equipment and conducting joint military exercises.
The partnership was finalized the day after North Korea launched a Hwasongpho-19 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Kim Jong-un, the national leader who witnessed the test, stated it served as a warning to potential aggressors.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the launch, emphasizing that North Korea’s ongoing missile activities are in “clear violation” of Security Council resolutions.
Kim Yo Jong, a high-ranking North Korean official and the sister of the nation’s leader, voiced her “strong dissatisfaction” with Guterres’ remarks.
Kim Yo Jong stated that the UN Secretary-General has consistently remained silent on the aggressive rhetoric and actions of the US and its allies towards North Korea, which she claims are primary factors in escalating military tensions. Instead, he focuses unfairly on criticizing North Korea’s right to self-defense, urging them to abandon it.
