North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said the country’s capacity to produce weapons-grade nuclear material has more than doubled over the past five years, signaling Pyongyang’s continued commitment to expanding its nuclear arsenal.
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According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim made the remarks during a visit to a newly inaugurated nuclear materials production facility on Wednesday. The visit highlighted North Korea’s efforts to strengthen its nuclear capabilities amid what it describes as growing security threats.
Kim Jong-un says North Korea has more than doubled its weapons-grade nuclear material production over five years, vowing an “exponential” expansion of its arsenalhttps://t.co/R72UCleSPy
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Kim said the country faces a prolonged confrontation with its “most ferocious enemies” and must respond to existing and potential threats by enhancing its nuclear deterrence. He stressed the need to accelerate the development of nuclear forces, describing the current security environment as increasingly unpredictable and challenging.
The North Korean leader stated that advances in sophisticated nuclear technology have created conditions for a new phase in the country’s nuclear development programme. He added that these technological achievements provide the foundation for implementing larger and more ambitious plans to expand the nation’s strategic capabilities.
During his visit, Kim said officials had finalized priorities for carrying out a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s nuclear forces at an “exponential rate.” He described the progress made over recent years as a significant achievement that exceeded expectations.
North Korea has repeatedly defended its nuclear weapons programme as essential for national security, while the United States and its allies continue to view the programme as a major regional and global security concern. International sanctions remain in place against Pyongyang over its nuclear and missile activities.
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Kim’s latest comments are expected to draw attention from regional powers and the international community, particularly as tensions remain elevated on the Korean Peninsula. Analysts believe the announcement could further complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at curbing North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and reducing security risks in Northeast Asia.