North Korean leader Kim Jong Un issued a warning to the United States and South Korea, stating that any attack would be met with a nuclear response, according to state media reports on Tuesday. This comes as tensions continue to rise on the Korean Peninsula, and concerns are growing about a potential provocation leading up to the U.S. presidential election.
In a speech delivered during his visit to Kim Jong Un University of National Defense on Monday, Kim issued the threat, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.
Kim emphasized that North Korea’s progress towards becoming a military superpower and a nuclear-armed nation would be expedited.
In 2022, North Korea declared itself a nuclear state through the passage of a law. The country asserted its right to carry out a preemptive nuclear strike in the event of a perceived threat.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a warning last week, stating that if Kim’s regime were to attempt a nuclear attack against the South, it would face elimination.
During an address on Armed Forces Day, Yoon stated that if North Korea were to make any attempts to utilize nuclear weapons, they would be met with a resolute and overwhelming response from our military and the ROK-U.S. alliance. Yoon further emphasized that such actions would ultimately lead to the downfall of the North Korean regime.
The anniversary parade for the South’s military showcased the introduction of a groundbreaking ballistic missile named the Hyunmoo-5. This state-of-the-art weapon is equipped with a formidable 8-ton warhead, making it a powerful addition to the country’s defense arsenal.
Kim emphasized the importance of politicians refraining from making irresponsible statements regarding national security and the well-being of the people. Instead, they should focus on effectively managing the situation to avoid military conflicts and promoting peaceful resolutions with nuclear states.
Kim made a public declaration earlier this year, where he labeled the South as the “principal enemy” and openly advocated for a constitutional change that would reject the longstanding official objective of reunification.
As of Tuesday, there have been no reports in state media about North Korea’s announcement to convene a crucial parliamentary meeting on Monday for the purpose of revising its constitution.
Pyongyang recently showcased an enrichment facility for weapons-grade uranium, raising concerns about its nuclear threat. Analysts believe that North Korea intends to send a message to the United States before next month’s presidential election, possibly through a provocative act like an ICBM or nuclear test.
