North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Thursday declared that his country would expand its nuclear capabilities “without limits”, citing an enhanced threat from the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
According to KCNA, Kim emphasized that North Korea had to continue strengthening its nuclear force. He told the military officials to focus efforts on completing war preparations and strengthening defense capabilities. Kim issued the remarks amid rising tensions after North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs sent alarm to many countries around the world.
He also criticized what he described as the increasing military cooperation between the US, South Korea, and Japan. Labeling it a grave threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. He accused the US of turning its alliance with South Korea into a “complete nuclear alliance”. And that the US was working to create an “Asian version of NATO.” He went on to say that military alliances led by the US were expanding into Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, targeting the North.
Kim, during a speech at the same meeting, said that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would not stop at what has already been achieved in the nuclear armaments field. And, without limit, continue strengthening this capability. He openly underlined that one of the most urgent tasks facing the country at present is preparing for war.
Additionally, Kim’s remarks reflected his lingering concern about the military posture of the US and its allies in the region. It includes the stations of US forces in South Korea and Japan.
Early this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that North Korean soldiers fought against Ukrainian forces. Citing reports of some 11,000 North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region. This military involvement in the Ukraine conflict has also drawn serious criticism from the US. For one, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin referred to the development as a “very serious” escalation.
Kim also accused the US of supporting Ukraine and Israel. Adding that US military aid to Ukraine and Israel is stoking global tensions and bringing the world closer to a third World War. In defense of the perceived threats, Kim ordered North Korean military leaders to focus on building up the nation’s nuclear forces. And finalizing war preparations to defend the interests of the state.
Kim’s comments also follow several new military technologies in the works in North Korea. Last week alone, North Korean state media reported that Kim oversaw tests of new “suicide attack drones”. That can target enemy positions both on land and sea. These plans signal a growing preoccupation with sophisticated arms as part of North Korea’s efforts to flex military muscles.
North Korean nuclear pretensions, linked with military cooperation with Russia, create a far-from-insignificant problem for regional security and global stability.
ANI
