MWE Correspondent
North Korea has accused the United States of fuelling a new nuclear arms race, claiming Washington’s nuclear strategy is increasing global security risks and pushing the world closer to the possibility of nuclear conflict.
In a statement carried by North Korean state media, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson criticised what Pyongyang described as a US strategy that places greater emphasis on nuclear weapons. North Korea said the policy could undermine the existing nuclear balance and intensify competition among nuclear-armed states.
Pyongyang also condemned planned joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, saying the drills were provocative and represented a growing threat to North Korea.
The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises are scheduled to begin on August 17 and run through August 27. Washington and Seoul describe the exercises as defensive and intended to strengthen their ability to respond to security threats on the Korean Peninsula.
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North Korea, however, has repeatedly described the exercises as preparations for a potential invasion and warned that it would strengthen its nuclear deterrent in response to what it considers an escalating military threat.
The latest warning comes days after North Korea conducted its second ballistic missile launch in less than a week. The missile launched on August 11 travelled about 700 kilometres before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, according to reports.
North Korea said it would respond to what it views as a higher level of threat with stronger deterrence capabilities.
Tensions have also increased over South Korea’s plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines. Pyongyang has warned that the move could trigger a wider “nuclear domino” effect across the Asia-Pacific region.
The latest developments have raised concerns about further military escalation in East Asia as Washington and Seoul prepare for their annual joint exercises, while North Korea continues to expand its missile and nuclear capabilities.
