SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has voiced strong opposition to the heightened security collaboration between the US, South Korea, and Japan, deeming it a significant threat to his nation. He reiterated his commitment to fortify the country's nuclear arsenal, as reported by state media on Sunday.
Kim's remarks, made during the 77th founding anniversary of the Korean People's Army, underscored his reservations towards President Donald Trump's diplomatic gestures, suggesting a reluctance to engage in talks anytime soon.
Concerns Over Regional Security
Speaking at the event, Kim condemned the US-Japan-South Korea trilateral security pact, labeling it a strategy to establish a NATO-like military presence in the region. He warned that such alliances could disrupt the security balance on the Korean Peninsula, posing a direct threat to North Korea's sovereignty.
The official Korean Central News Agency quoted Kim outlining plans to enhance their deterrence capabilities, including the expansion of their nuclear arsenal.
Escalating Tensions
Amid stalled negotiations with the US and South Korea, Kim has focused on modernizing North Korea's nuclear capabilities. In response, the US and South Korea have ramped up joint military exercises, further aggravating tensions in the region. North Korea has consistently criticized these drills, viewing them as preparations for an invasion.
Despite President Trump's expressed willingness to engage with Kim, recent diplomatic efforts have faltered. The breakdown in talks followed disagreements over the extent of North Korea's denuclearization in exchange for sanctions relief.
Future Diplomatic Prospects
While North Korea has refrained from responding directly to Trump's overtures, experts speculate that Kim's focus on supporting Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine could impact his diplomatic decisions. There are indications that Kim may revisit talks with Trump if his alignment with Russia proves unsustainable post-conflict.
In his recent address, Kim reaffirmed North Korea's support for Russia and criticized the US for its involvement in the Ukraine crisis.
International Concerns
The international community remains wary of potential shifts in US policy towards North Korea. However, a joint statement following Trump's meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reiterated their commitment to North Korea's complete denuclearization.
The statement also emphasized the trilateral partnership between the US, Japan, and South Korea in addressing North Korean threats.