ALWAGHT- Kim Jong-un has called for the accelerated expansion of North Korea’s nuclear capabilities in response to what he described as “obvious” war provocations from joint US–South Korea drills.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for a rapid expansion of his country’s nuclear arsenal, condemning ongoing joint US–South Korea military exercises as “obvious” provocations of war. Speaking aboard a navy destroyer, he argued that the drills, which included nuclear elements, demonstrated Washington and Seoul’s intent to ignite conflict. He stressed that the situation demands swift changes in military strategy and an accelerated push toward nuclearization.
The US and South Korea launched their annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises this week, an 11-day program involving large-scale, live-fire training events. Washington describes the drills as “defense-oriented” and aimed at improving joint readiness against North Korean threats. Pyongyang, however, routinely denounces such exercises as invasion rehearsals and often counters with missile tests.
Despite South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s pledge to pursue unconditional dialogue and build “military trust” with the North, Pyongyang has rejected overtures for reconciliation. Kim Yo Jong, the North Korean leader’s sister, dismissed the possibility of talks last month, criticizing Seoul’s reliance on the US alliance. Tensions remain high, especially after North Korea amended its constitution in October to formally label the South a “hostile state,” abandoning the long-standing goal of reunification.
