Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has accused the United States of exacerbating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, warning that the risk of nuclear war is higher than ever. Speaking at a defense exhibition in Pyongyang on Friday, Kim denounced Washington’s actions as “aggressive and hostile” and claimed that past talks with the U.S. revealed its unwillingness to seek peaceful coexistence.
According to state media KCNA, Kim stated, “Never before have the warring parties on the Korean peninsula faced such a dangerous and acute confrontation that it could escalate into the most destructive thermonuclear war.” His comments underscore the increasing friction between North Korea and the U.S. as Kim continues to build up the country’s nuclear arsenal.
The exhibition, which showcased advanced intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, highlighted North Korea’s growing military capabilities. Kim vowed to develop “ultra-modern” weapons, arguing that strengthening the nation’s military was the only way to ensure security against perceived threats.
Kim also addressed the collapse of his past diplomatic efforts with the United States, specifically during Donald Trump’s presidency. The two leaders held three summits between 2018 and 2019 in Singapore and Hanoi. However, negotiations broke down due to disagreements over sanctions relief and the denuclearization of North Korea. Kim, without directly naming Trump, noted that “We have already gone as far as we can on negotiating with the United States” and stressed that the U.S. had shown no genuine interest in peaceful coexistence. “What we became certain of from the result is not the superpower’s willingness to coexist, but its thorough stance of power and aggressive and hostile policy toward us that can never change,” he added.
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The North Korean leader also accused the U.S. of increasing military pressure in the region by enhancing cooperation with its allies and deploying advanced weaponry, such as bombers and aircraft carriers. Kim labeled the Korean Peninsula “the world’s biggest hotspot” and blamed the U.S. for pushing tensions to “the worst phase in history.”
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North Korea’s missile program remains a significant threat to both South Korea and Japan. Analysts believe that Kim’s nuclear ambitions are aimed at forcing Washington to recognize North Korea as a nuclear state, with the ultimate goal of securing economic concessions.
