North Korea has declared its intention to bolster its nuclear capabilities under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, while condemning the United States and its Asian neighbors for advocating a denuclearization plan aimed at the authoritarian regime.
The foreign ministry of North Korea dismissed the joint commitment made by the U.S., South Korea, and Japan as an 'outdated and absurd plan,' cautioning of 'overwhelming and decisive counteraction' against any perceived threats to its security.
An unnamed spokesperson from the ministry emphasized that North Korea views its nuclear arsenal as essential for safeguarding peace, sovereignty, and legitimate self-defense as enshrined in the state's constitution.
This criticism follows a recent meeting between U.S. Secretary of State, the South Korean Foreign Minister, and the Japanese Foreign Minister in Germany, where they reiterated their support for the complete denuclearization of North Korea and the continuation of sanctions against its weapons program.
The three nations also agreed to enhance defense cooperation, including expanding joint military exercises and strengthening the military capabilities of Japan and South Korea, as outlined in a joint statement released post the conference.
President Donald Trump, who has engaged in diplomatic talks with Kim Jong Un, recently hosted Japanese Prime Minister at the White House, expressing his willingness to maintain relations with North Korea and its leader.
Trump highlighted his amicable relationship with Kim and his efforts to establish a personal rapport with the North Korean leader, a strategy he seeks to build upon during his presidency.
Having met Kim in Singapore in 2018 and becoming the first sitting U.S. president to engage with the North Korean leader, Trump's diplomatic overtures have included a historic visit to North Korean territory from the demilitarized zone in 2019.
