North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reiterated the threat to use nuclear weapons against South Korea and the United States if attacked, and announced plans to accelerate North Korea’s military growth. He criticized the South Korea-US alliance, condemning South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s warning against the use of nuclear weapons. Kim stated they have no intention of attacking South Korea, but would respond with nuclear weapons if provoked. The North Korean parliament is expected to declare a “two-state” system, rejecting reconciliation with Seoul and declaring South Korea a “principal enemy.” Tensions between North and South Korea are rising, with the South resuming anti-Pyongyang broadcasts in response to North Korea’s provocative missile tests and trash-filled balloon launches. Relations between the two Koreas are at a low point, marked by stalled diplomatic communication and military exercises. Kim’s focus on military growth and nuclear capabilities indicates a path towards becoming a military superpower, escalating regional instability.
ss/rmt (AP, Reuters)