Kim Jong-un Orders Expansion of North Korea’s Nuclear Arsenal

Nuclear Arsenal

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to “exponentially” enhance the country’s nuclear arsenal as a measure to defend against what he describes as “hostile” forces.

Kim’s declaration reflects his assessment that North Korea faces an escalating threat due to what he terms the “reckless expansion” of a US-led regional military bloc, which he argues is evolving into a nuclear-based threat.

This announcement was made during a speech commemorating the 76th anniversary of the founding of his government, as reported by the official Korean Central News Agency.

Kim Jong Un’s commitment to significantly bolster North Korea’s nuclear capabilities comes amidst a backdrop of increasing military activity by the isolated nation.

The speech underscores a broader strategy to ensure that all branches of North Korea’s armed forces, including its nuclear forces, are fully prepared for combat.

This declaration highlights Pyongyang’s continued focus on military preparedness in response to perceived threats from international forces.

Recent developments in North Korea’s military capabilities include the unveiling of a new platform likely intended to launch more powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

Additionally, North Korea has resumed sending balloons carrying propaganda and other materials towards South Korea, further straining relations between the two countries.

The increased tension follows the signing of a new US-South Korean defense guideline in July, aimed at integrating US nuclear weapons with South Korean conventional forces to address growing North Korean nuclear threats.

North Korea has condemned this agreement, viewing it as a signal of its adversaries’ intentions to invade. However, US and South Korean officials have repeatedly stated that their actions are defensive and that they do not intend to attack North Korea.

Since 2022, North Korea has accelerated its weapons testing activities, asserting its capability to launch strikes against the US and South Korea.

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) estimates that North Korea currently possesses around 50 nuclear warheads, although the precise number remains uncertain.

The country remains under international sanctions due to its ongoing nuclear weapons and missile programs, with its last known nuclear test occurring in 2017.

In response to North Korea’s actions, the US and South Korea have expanded their military exercises, which North Korea perceives as rehearsals for invasion.

This intensification of military activity underscores the growing tensions in the region and highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing North Korea’s nuclear ambitions within the framework of international diplomacy and security.