North Korea has doubled down on its nuclear weapons program, declaring its status as a nuclear state “irreversible” — regardless of opposition from the United States, South Korea, or Japan.
In a strong-worded statement released Tuesday, Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, rejected recent calls for denuclearization made during a trilateral meeting between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan on the sidelines of a NATO summit.
“We don’t care about anyone’s denial and recognition, and we never change our option,” said Kim, according to state media outlet KCNA. “This is our steadfast choice that can never be reversed by any physical strength or sly artifice.”
Defiance Amid Sanctions
Since conducting its first underground nuclear test in 2006, North Korea has built what it calls a “strong and substantial nuclear deterrent.” Despite U.N. Security Council sanctions, the country has continued to advance its nuclear capabilities — though it has not yet conducted an atmospheric test.
The remarks come as Washington and its allies continue pushing for the complete dismantling of Pyongyang’s nuclear arsenal, a goal that now appears increasingly out of reach. Many analysts believe North Korea has passed the point of no return on denuclearization.
Trump’s Return to the Table?
Donald Trump, who held historic summits with Kim Jong Un during his presidency, has referred to the regime as a “nuclear power” and hinted at the possibility of reopening talks if re-elected.
As North Korea reasserts its nuclear stance, tensions on the Korean Peninsula are poised to rise — with global powers once again confronting a regime that refuses to back down.
