Kim Jong Un says he builds up nuclear arsenal 'exponentially'
Kim Jong Un (Kremlin.ru)
North Korea is currently pursuing a policy of nuclear force expansion to grow its nuclear weapons arsenal "exponentially," according to leader Kim Jong.
In a speech marking North Korea’s founding anniversary, Kim stated that the country must prepare its nuclear capabilities more thoroughly and ensure they are ready for use "at any moment" to safeguard the nation’s right to security.
He added that a strong military presence is essential to counter the various threats posed by the United States and its allies.
Kim also claimed that North Korea faces a serious threat from a US-led nuclear military bloc in the region.
Civilized world's response
On September 10, South Korea’s Vice Minister of Defense for Policy, Cho Chang-rae, along with his US and Japanese counterparts, condemned North Korea’s recent diversification of nuclear delivery systems, as well as its testing and launching of multiple ballistic missiles.
During a meeting in Seoul, the three leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trilateral cooperation to ensure peace in the region, including efforts to deter North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats.
They also agreed to hold a second round of trilateral military exercises, dubbed Freedom Edge, soon.
Additionally, on September 10, South Korea will host a defense ministers' meeting with member states of the United Nations Command (UNC), which is led by the US commander of forces stationed in South Korea.
Last month, Germany became the latest country to join the UNC in South Korea, which helps guard the heavily fortified border with North Korea and has pledged to defend the South in the event of war.
According to unofficial sources, North Korea is currently estimated to possess around 20 nuclear warheads.
Previously, officials in Seoul suggested that North Korea may conduct nuclear tests ahead of the US presidential election.
