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Kim Yo-jong Rejects Denuclearisation in Stern Statement on North Korea’s Nuclear Arsenal
Pyongyang – Kim Yo-jong, a prominent North Korean politician and a key advisor to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has issued a firm declaration regarding the nation’s nuclear weapons program. In a statement released Wednesday, Kim dismissed any notion of dismantling North Korea’s nuclear arsenal as a “daydream,” asserting that their nuclear capabilities are irreversible. This pronouncement follows recent discussions among diplomats from the United States, South Korea, and Japan, who convened after a NATO meeting last week to reaffirm their dedication to the complete denuclearisation of North Korea.
Rejection of Denuclearisation Talks
Kim Yo-jong responded with defiance to the diplomats’ discussions, stating that any dialogue concerning denuclearisation is perceived as “the most hostile act.” She argued that external conversations on this matter equate to a violation of North Korea’s sovereignty and emphasized that the expansion of nuclear weapons is enshrined in the country’s constitution.
Statement to State Media
Speaking to state-controlled media outlets, Kim articulated, “It only fully exposed the uneasiness of the US, Japan and the ROK [Republic of Korea], in a desperate plight of having to talk about denuclearisation in chorus.”
She further contended, “If the US and its allied forces persist in advocating obsolete denuclearisation… it will only furnish limitless justification for the advancement of the DPRK [North Korea] striving towards constructing the paramount nuclear force for self-defense.”
“Irreversible” Nuclear Status
Kim, identified by some analysts as a highly influential figure, reinforced that North Korea’s nuclear weapons status is “never reversible,” delivering a stark warning in response to the US-led international efforts to curb Pyongyang’s nuclear ambitions.
Prior Condemnation of US Military Activity
This recent statement follows Kim’s previous remarks in March, where she denounced the United States over the deployment of an American Navy aircraft carrier to Busan, a port city in South Korea. At that time, she accused the US administration of perpetuating the “hostile policy” of its predecessors.
Diplomacy Impasse
Reports indicate that Kim is presently disregarding appeals from Washington and Seoul to engage in continued denuclearisation discussions. Furthermore, there has been no response from the politician to former President Donald Trump’s suggestion that he would attempt to revive diplomacy. During his presidential term, Trump and Kim Jong-un engaged in three summits.
Breakdown of Previous Diplomacy
However, those diplomatic endeavors faltered due to disagreements concerning US sanctions relief in exchange for the dismantling of North Korea’s nuclear programs. The differing stances on these key issues led to a collapse in negotiations.
North Korea-Russia Relations
Following the conflict in Ukraine, North Korea has reportedly been providing support to Russia, including supplying troops and weaponry. Seoul has voiced concerns that Pyongyang might receive advanced technology and economic assistance from President Putin in return for this support, potentially impacting regional security dynamics.