PYONGYANG, NORTH KOREA – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a significant expansion of the country’s nuclear weapons program after visiting a newly established nuclear materials facility, according to state media.
During the visit to the undisclosed site, Kim said North Korea’s capacity to produce nuclear materials has doubled over the past five years. He instructed officials to accelerate efforts to strengthen the country’s long-term defense capabilities amid rising regional tensions.
State media reported that Kim stressed the importance of expanding nuclear capabilities as a “necessary measure for self-defense” in response to what he described as increasing instability and threats from hostile nations.
South Korean officials believe the newly inspected facility is used to process uranium, a key material in nuclear weapons development.
Analysts say the timing of the visit may be strategically linked to a potential upcoming trip by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pyongyang, as North Korea seeks to signal its military strength and geopolitical relevance.
Experts also suggest the move could be aimed at reinforcing North Korea’s bargaining position ahead of possible future diplomatic negotiations with Western countries.
The announcement comes as Pyongyang closely monitors escalating global tensions, including recent developments in Iran, where renewed conflict has raised concerns among states with strained relations with the United States.
International estimates suggest North Korea currently possesses around 50 nuclear weapons, although the exact figure remains uncertain due to the country’s secrecy.
The latest development is expected to heighten concerns among regional powers and the wider international community as efforts to limit North Korea’s nuclear program continue.
