North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared his country’s intention to solidify its status as a military superpower equipped with nuclear weapons, stating a willingness to use them in response to any enemy aggression, as reported by state news agency KCNA. Kim criticized South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for colluding with the U.S. to destabilize the region and emphasized North Korea’s defense capabilities.
Despite expressing no intention for an attack on South Korea, Kim warned of utilizing all offensive power, including nuclear weapons, if provoked. North Korea has a history of pursuing nuclear weapons development, with the capability to produce numerous warheads and having conducted multiple underground tests.
Kim’s statements coincide with North Korea’s plans to discuss constitutional amendments, signaling a shift in unification efforts with South Korea and emphasizing the South as a principal enemy. Kim also extended birthday greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin, hinting at strengthened relations between their countries.
The escalating rhetoric from Kim underscores North Korea’s determination to assert its military prowess, posing challenges to regional stability.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.