On Monday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the nation’s nuclear arsenal, citing a “grave threat” from the United States and its allies.
Underlining its defense strategy, Pyongyang claims that its United Nations-sanctioned nuclear program is vital for deterrence. In 2023, it even enshrined its nuclear weapons status in the constitution amidst rising tensions with South Korea. Both Washington and Seoul have made it clear that any nuclear aggression from North Korea would threaten the Kim regime’s existence.
Speaking at the 76th anniversary of North Korea’s founding, Kim emphasized the importance of strengthening national defense capabilities.
He stated, “The reckless expansion of a U.S.-led military alliance has created an increasingly dangerous security environment for the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea,” as noted in a transcript from the Korean Central News Agency.
Kim also mentioned that the country’s nuclear forces need to be “more thoroughly perfected,” promising a steady enhancement of nuclear capabilities to counter any threats from rival nuclear states, vowing to intensify preparations for potential conflicts.
His comments followed a joint statement from China, Japan, and South Korea in May, which reiterated support for North Korea’s denuclearization after a trilateral summit in Seoul. North Korea, however, criticized this statement as a breach of its sovereignty, notably taking a rare stand against China—its traditional ally—despite China’s prior role in imposing U.N. sanctions on North Korea.
Chinese President Xi Jinping sent Kim a congratulatory message, applauding the “socialist cause” under his reign and expressing China’s readiness to enhance friendly relations with North Korea. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent his regards, emphasizing the strengthening ties between their nations following his visit to Pyongyang in June, which resulted in a military aid agreement.
According to estimates from the Federation of American Scientists, North Korea has reportedly developed around 50 nuclear warheads since its first test in 2006.