PYONGYANG: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed that the country will continue exercising its position as a nuclear state, saying it is the only viable response to an increasingly unstable global security environment, according to state media KCNA.
Speaking at a Central Committee meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party held over several days, Kim described the current international situation as unpredictable and increasingly dangerous, accusing “hegemonic forces” of fueling global conflicts.
He directly blamed the United States for worsening wars and instability in Europe and the Middle East, saying Washington’s policies have intensified global confrontation.
Kim also criticized joint military cooperation between the United States and South Korea, claiming that their expanding nuclear posture is aimed at targeting North Korea and increasing threats on the Korean Peninsula.
He said strengthening and expanding nuclear capabilities remains the “most appropriate and confident” way for North Korea to respond to evolving global military and political challenges.
State media reported that Kim ordered continued development of both nuclear and conventional forces, including accelerated construction of a 10,000-ton strategic guided missile cruiser as part of military modernization efforts.
While KCNA did not provide operational details regarding nuclear expansion, analysts say the remarks reinforce Pyongyang’s long-standing rejection of denuclearisation talks.
Experts in Seoul noted that the statement signals North Korea’s intent to engage only as a nuclear-armed state, potentially shifting future negotiations toward arms control rather than dismantlement.
Kim also accused Washington and Seoul of escalating tensions through joint defense initiatives and nuclear consultation frameworks, which Pyongyang views as direct threats.
North Korea, which remains under multiple United Nations and US sanctions over its nuclear and missile programs, reiterated that it has no intention of abandoning its nuclear arsenal.
The party meeting also focused on domestic priorities, including efforts to modernize the coal industry and improve mining regions, which Kim described as critical to addressing the country’s persistent energy shortages.
