In a dramatic escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has demanded a massive and rapid expansion of his country's nuclear arsenal. The directive comes as a direct response to what he terms 'aggressive and provocative' joint military exercises conducted by the United States and South Korea.
The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Mr Kim chaired a meeting of the ruling Workers' Party's central military commission, where he stressed the urgent need to boost nuclear weapon production 'exponentially'. He also called for the development of new intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and a far more 'overwhelming' nuclear counterattack strategy.
A Reaction to 'Open Confrontation'
The orders are framed as a necessary defensive measure against the escalating military posture of the US and its allies. The recent 'Freedom Shield' drills, which involved advanced stealth fighters and a US B-1B strategic bomber, were characterised by Pyongyang as rehearsals for an invasion.
'The present situation requires the DPRK to redouble its efforts to defend its sovereignty and security by accelerating the strengthening of its overwhelming nuclear deterrence,' a government spokesperson stated, using the acronym for North Korea's official name.
The Sister's Warning
Adding to the fiery rhetoric, Kim Jong Un's powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, issued a stark warning. She declared that Pyongyang would view any incoming US military aircraft as a declaration of war and respond accordingly. Her statement specifically condemned the flight of the US B-1B bomber, which can carry a significant conventional payload, during the exercises.
'We make it clear that we will take the toughest counteraction against any military attempt by the hostile forces,' she was quoted as saying, signalling a zero-tolerance policy towards US aerial surveillance and drills near its border.
An International Concern
This latest development marks a significant hardening of North Korea's position and poses a serious challenge to international non-proliferation efforts. The regime has conducted a record number of missile tests in the past year, showcasing weapons designed to evade regional missile defences and potentially strike the US mainland.
Analysts suggest that this aggressive posturing is intended to force concessions from Washington and Seoul, potentially including sanctions relief, while also solidifying North Korea's status as a nuclear power that demands to be dealt with as an equal.
