Kim Jong Un warns against nuclear provocation
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared that his country will not hesitate to launch a nuclear strike if provoked by a rival, according to state media reports on Thursday. Kim made these statements while meeting with soldiers from the military’s missile bureau following a recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch drill. The North Korean leader emphasized that the demonstration of military activity was a clear indication of the country’s commitment to defending sovereignty and its nuclear strategy, emphasizing a readiness for a nuclear counterattack when provoked with nuclear weapons.
Earlier in the week, North Korea announced the testing of its newest ICBM, citing a need to assess its nuclear force’s readiness in the face of increasing hostility from the United States. Kim highlighted the military’s high mobility and rapid attack capability demonstrated in the launch and called for efforts to enhance combat efficiency. Meanwhile, Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, condemned the United Nations Security Council for convening a meeting on the ICBM launch, asserting the country’s right to self-defense and criticizing the actions of the US and its allies for escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula through military provocations.
Despite North Korea’s nuclear threats, experts suggest the country has yet to possess functional nuclear missiles and is unlikely to initiate the use of nuclear weapons due to its inferior military position compared to the US. North Korea’s recent missile tests, including the Hwasong-18 launch on Monday, have raised concerns internationally, with the US and South Korea warning of severe consequences if North Korea were to use nuclear weapons.
