North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a rapid expansion of his country’s nuclear arsenal in response to ongoing joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea. According to state media KCNA, Kim described the drills as an “obvious expression of their will to provoke war,” labeling them a deliberate provocation and evidence of hostile intent.
The U.S. and South Korea commenced their annual 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises earlier this week, aimed at improving readiness amid growing nuclear threats from the North. While Seoul and Washington assert that the drills are defensive, Pyongyang views them as rehearsals for invasion. Kim emphasized that the current security situation necessitates accelerated nuclear development, especially in light of perceived nuclear elements within the U.S.-South Korea drills.
In a visit to a naval destroyer, Kim highlighted the need for North Korea to “rapidly expand” its nuclear capabilities. He noted that recent exercises featured a “nuclear element,” reinforcing his stance that the country must bolster its nuclear arsenal in response to escalating security threats.
Analysts suggest that Kim’s call for a rapid nuclear buildup signals North Korea’s intent to permanently strengthen its arsenal and reject denuclearization efforts. The Federation of American Scientists estimates that Pyongyang could have enough material for up to 90 nuclear warheads, though it likely possesses around 50 assembled weapons.
As tensions continue to rise on the Korean Peninsula, the international community watches closely, with upcoming summits and discussions expected to address North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and regional security concerns.
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