North Korean Leader’s Sister Insists on Permanent Nuclear Status, Rejecting Denuclearization Calls

Kim Yo Jong rejected U.S. calls for denuclearization, stating that North Korea’s nuclear status is permanent. She criticized discussions of denuclearization as hostile and emphasized the nation’s determination to enhance its nuclear capabilities. The geopolitical tension escalates with North Korea’s closer ties to Russia amidst the Ukraine conflict.

In a recent statement, Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, dismissed calls from the United States and its allies for the denuclearization of North Korea. Kim, a notable figure in the nation’s foreign policy, described these appeals as mere “daydreams” and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to its nuclear weapons program, which she claims is a permanent state enshrined in the North Korean constitution. Her comments followed a meeting among diplomats from the U.S., South Korea, and Japan who reiterated their shared goal of denuclearizing North Korea.

Kim Yo Jong labeled discussions regarding denuclearization as “the most hostile act,” arguing they deny North Korea’s sovereignty. She emphasized that any attempts to impose denuclearization would only strengthen the nation’s resolve to enhance its nuclear capabilities for self-defense. “If the U.S. and its vassal forces continue to insist on anachronistic ‘denuclearization’ … it will only give unlimited justness and justification to the advance of the DPRK aspiring after the building of the strongest nuclear force for self-defense,” she stated, asserting that North Korea’s nuclear status is irreversible.

The geopolitical tension in the region escalates as Kim Jong Un continues to showcase North Korean military power and is aligning more closely with Russia amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite calls for a revival of denuclearization talks from Washington and Seoul, Kim’s administration remains unyielding. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed a willingness to engage with Kim again to renew diplomatic discussions, yet North Korea’s response remains absent.

South Korea is concerned about the possibility of North Korea receiving economic support and advanced technology from Russia, potentially enhancing its military arsenal. This unease is compounded by recent border tensions, as evidenced by South Korean forces firing warning shots to intercept North Korean soldiers who crossed the military demarcation line. The situation underscores the volatility of the North Korean geopolitical landscape, further complicated by ongoing international conflicts.

In summary, Kim Yo Jong’s firm rejection of denuclearization calls and insistence on North Korea’s nuclear ambitions highlight a significant strain in regional security and international diplomacy. The North’s alignment with Russia raises concerns about potential assistance in enhancing its military capabilities. As the situation develops, the need for strategic dialogues and diplomatic engagement remains paramount to address the escalating tensions.

Original Source: wtop.com