North Korea expands nuclear weapons capacity — IAEA
Photo: IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi (Getty Images)
North Korea has likely significantly expanded its nuclear weapons production capabilities in recent times, according to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.
Speaking in Seoul, Grossi confirms a sharp increase in activity at the 5-megawatt reactor, the reprocessing facility, the light-water reactor, and other sites within North Korea’s nuclear complex in Yongbyon.
"All of them point to a very serious increase in the capabilities of the DPRK in the area of nuclear weapons production," the IAEA chief notes, adding that North Korea’s nuclear capabilities are estimated at several dozen warheads.
According to him, the IAEA has documented the construction of a new facility resembling uranium enrichment workshops in Yongbyon, and an analysis of external signs indicates a significant expansion of enrichment capacity.
Satellite images taken in April confirm the IAEA’s assessment, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).
The images indicate the completion of the construction of a likely uranium enrichment plant capable of producing weapons-grade material.
North Korea expanding nuclear arsenal
Last September, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced that North Korea would introduce a new policy aimed at the simultaneous development of nuclear forces and conventional armed forces.
The DPRK’s Permanent Mission to the UN also stated that North Korea’s status as a nuclear power is irreversible.
North Korea continues to expand its nuclear arsenal at a breakneck pace, despite pressure from the UN. Its capacity is sufficient to produce 20 warheads annually.
