Kim Jong-un has declared his intention to strengthen North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, a move he associates with escalating tensions instigated by a security alliance among the United States, South Korea, and Japan. In a speech delivered on Saturday, commemorating the 77th anniversary of the Korean People’s Army, Kim characterized this trilateral alliance as a significant threat to the stability of his nation.
Critique of US-led military alliances
According to the official report from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim accused Washington of creating a NATO-like military coalition in the region that poses a serious challenge to North Korea’s security environment. He has emphasized that the growing military cooperation between the US, South Korea, and Japan heightens the risks faced by his country.
In light of stagnated diplomatic efforts in recent years, Kim has prioritized the expansion and modernization of North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. In response to these developments, the United States and South Korea have ramped up their military drills, including joint exercises that also involve Japan.
US-North Korea relations under scrutiny
Since taking office, President Trump has expressed a desire to rekindle relations with Kim Jong-un, often reflecting on their previous summits. At a recent press conference alongside Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Trump remarked, “We will have relations with North Korea, with Kim Jong-un. I got along with him very well, as you know.” However, both leaders also reaffirmed their “resolute commitment to the complete denuclearisation of the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea).”
During their meetings between 2018 and 2019, Trump and Kim engaged in unprecedented discussions as the first sitting US president to meet a North Korean leader. Nevertheless, negotiations faltered when Trump dismissed Kim’s proposal to dismantle his primary nuclear facility in exchange for substantial sanctions relief. As of now, North Korea has not directly reacted to Trump’s latest comments.
Analysts suggest that Kim is currently focused on deepening military ties with Russia, having recently deployed thousands of troops to support President Vladimir Putin’s efforts in Ukraine. Some experts opine that Kim might eventually reconsider diplomatic overtures towards Trump if his alliance with Russia becomes untenable.
“North Korea will invariably support and encourage the just cause of the Russian army and people to defend their sovereignty, security and territorial integrity,” Kim stated, underscoring his commitment to Moscow’s military endeavors.
In his speech, Kim accused the United States of exacerbating the conflict in Ukraine, labeling it as “the war machine which is stirring up the tragic situation of Ukraine.” This reflects a broader narrative from Pyongyang, positioning the US as a perpetrator rather than a peacemaker in international conflicts.