In a stark warning to his adversaries, Kim Jong Un, the top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), announced this week that his country is prepared to deploy all offensive capabilities, including nuclear weapons, if its sovereignty is threatened. The remarks were reported by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Friday.
During an inspection of a training base for special operations units in the western region, Kim underscored the irreversible status of the DPRK as a nuclear power. He asserted that any attempt by enemies to encroach upon the nation's sovereignty would be met with a formidable response.
“The enemies’ threatening rhetoric, actions, tricks, and attempts will not take away the DPRK’s nuclear weapons,” Kim declared, emphasizing that the country “has irreversibly secured the absolute strength as a nuclear power and the system and function for using it,” according to the KCNA report.
This strong statement comes on the heels of a military parade staged by the Republic of Korea, during which President Yoon Suk Yeol warned of “the end of the DPRK regime” should Pyongyang employ nuclear weapons.
Responding to these provocations, Kim cautioned that “to pray for good luck in surviving a military conflict with a nuclear weapons state would be a foolish thing,” adding, “if such a situation comes, the permanent existence of Seoul and the Republic of Korea would be impossible.”
Highlighting the importance of self-reliance in defense, Kim stressed the need for the DPRK military to continue strengthening its forces. “Strength in our hands is the only guarantee for keeping the enemy under control and defending ourselves,” he stated.
Kim described the DPRK’s special operations forces as the “pivotal and core force” in the nation’s war deterrence and combat capabilities. He emphasized the necessity to expand and enhance these units into the country’s strongest combat forces.
These developments signal heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, underscoring the fragile relationship between the DPRK and its southern neighbor. As both nations continue to display military might, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to avoid escalation.
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Kim: DPRK to use all offensive forces, including nuclear, if attacked
cgtn.com