(WatchDogReport.org) – North Korea’s dictator, Kim Jong-un, warned of a possible nuclear strike against the United States, using state media to communicate his intention if the US made a “wrong decision” against his regime.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), a government-controlled outlet, detailed Kim’s declaration about an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch as a preemptive measure against the US making an adverse choice. KCNA also confirmed the recent missile launch, identifying it as the “Hwasong-18,” North Korea’s latest known model.
The missile launch coincided with the visit of Deputy Foreign Minister Pak Myong Ho to Beijing, where Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated support for North Korea. Despite the positive rapport between China and North Korea, KCNA attributed the missile launch to defense cooperation among South Korea, the US, and Japan, aimed at monitoring North Korea’s nuclear activities.
According to KCNA, Kim Jong-un’s order to launch the missile aimed to demonstrate North Korea’s readiness to use nuclear weapons in response to any hostile actions by the US. The agency also highlighted Kim’s satisfaction with the missile’s demonstration of the country’s strength and determination.
The missile launch prompted joint military exercises by America, South Korea, and Japan in the region, reinforcing their readiness to counter North Korea’s nuclear threats. North Korea’s recent provocations, including the successful launch of a spy satellite and its vocal support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine, have raised concerns internationally.
The US and its allies face a complex situation regarding North Korea’s potential use of nuclear weapons in a conflict on the Korean Peninsula. While non-nuclear responses may be preferred, the alliance must also prepare strategically for the possibility of North Korea’s first use of nuclear weapons, given the operational and strategic challenges involved in any confrontation.
Addressing this challenge requires careful consideration of military responses while also seeking non-nuclear retaliation to prevent further escalation in the event of a conflict. Additionally, reconfiguring the US conventional presence in northeast Asia could potentially mitigate risks and reduce the vulnerability of American assets in the region.
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