Rising tensions prompt North Korea to prioritize nuclear readiness FM warns

In light of the current international political climate and ongoing threats, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) must ready itself for “nuclear retaliation,” stated Choi Seong-hee, the North Korean Foreign Minister, during discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Choi emphasized the necessity of strengthening the nation’s advanced strategic and offensive nuclear capabilities to ensure preparedness for potential nuclear responses, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

“The current situation, along with prospective threats and challenges, requires us now more than ever to bolster our nuclear arsenal,” she asserted.

The situation on the Korean Peninsula remains tense, largely attributed to actions by the United States, which Choi warned could have dire consequences. She described the security environment in the DPRK as precarious and unstable, exacerbated by the manoeuvres of the US and its allies. "The respected Chairman of State Affairs, Kim Jong-un, has pointed out that the military alliance between the US and South Korea is evolving into one with a nuclear dimension, which poses an explosive risk to the Korean Peninsula," she said.

Choi highlighted the establishment of a nuclear advisory group by the US and South Korea, claiming it engages in regular discussions of “nuclear strike plans” against the DPRK. She noted that US aircraft carrier strike groups have been deployed in the region three times in 2024 alone, and a modern US Navy strategic submarine has arrived in South Korea, alongside the passage of strategic nuclear bombers over the Korean Peninsula on five occasions.

In previous statements, Choi Seong-hee expressed the DPRK’s commitment to supporting the Russian military and people in what she termed their "holy war." Since the onset of the Russian "special military operation" in Ukraine, Kim Jong-un has instructed that robust support be extended to Russia.

This follows President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea, during which he signed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between Russia and the DPRK. Ratified by the State Duma on October 24, the treaty encompasses 23 articles aimed at enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including trade, economics, investment, science, technology, space research, and peaceful nuclear energy.

By Tamilla Hasanova