North Korean leader Kim Jong Un asserted on Thursday that Pyongyang would not shy away from launching a nuclear attack in response to provocations involving nuclear weapons by an adversary, as reported by state media. Kim made this declaration during a meeting with soldiers affiliated with the military's missile bureau, specifically discussing a recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launching drill, according to KCNA news agency.
The North Korean leader emphasized that the decisive military activity carried out during the recent drill provided a clear demonstration of the offensive counteraction mode and the evolution of the nuclear strategy and doctrine of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). He underlined the DPRK's stance of not hesitating to initiate a nuclear attack if provoked by an adversary wielding nuclear weapons, as detailed in the KCNA report.
Earlier this week, North Korea announced the testing of its newest ICBM, framing it as an assessment of its nuclear force's readiness amid perceived hostility from the United States and its allies. Kim highlighted that Monday's launch showcased the military's high mobility and swift attack capability. He called for continued efforts to enhance combat efficiency, according to the KCNA report.
In a separate statement, Kim's sister, Kim Yo Jong, criticized the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for convening a meeting in response to North Korea's ICBM launch. She defended the launch as an exercise of the country's right to self-defense and placed blame on the U.S. and South Korea (ROK) for escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula through various military provocations throughout the year.
