North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Promises to Bolster Nuclear Capabilities

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, has recently declared his commitment to enhancing the country’s nuclear capabilities while adopting a tough position against South Korea, labeling it as the “most hostile” nation, according to state media reports from Tuesday.

During a speech at Pyongyang’s Rubber Stamp Congress on Monday, Kim denounced the United States, calling its activities global “state terrorism and aggression,” seemingly in reference to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He stated that North Korea aims to take a more significant role in a united front opposing the U.S., particularly as anti-American sentiments rise.

A North Korean official mentioned that the adversaries have the choice between “confrontation or peaceful coexistence.” He added that North Korea is ready to respond to whichever path is chosen.

Kim emphasized that “the nation’s dignity, national interest, and ultimate victory can only be guaranteed by the strongest power.” He indicated that the government would persist in solidifying its unyielding stance as a nuclear power and would actively confront any provocations from perceived hostile forces.

According to the U.S. Intelligence Community’s 2026 Annual Threat Assessment, North Korea is dedicated to expanding its strategic weapons program, which includes missiles and nuclear warheads, while strengthening its deterrence capabilities.

In the backdrop, the United States and Israel have recently engaged in military action against Iran, aiming to prevent the nation from joining the ranks of nuclear-armed states.