North Korea has reaffirmed that its nuclear arsenal is meant for combat use, not as a bargaining chip or a tool for international recognition.
Firm Stance on Nuclear Weapons
"Our nuclear weapons are not a publicity stunt to gain anyone’s approval, nor a bargaining chip to trade for money," North Korea’s state-run KCNA news agency stated today.
The statement was a direct response to recent calls from NATO and the European Union (EU) urging the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
“The North Korean nuclear force will be used decisively in battle to swiftly eliminate any enemy attempt to violate our sovereignty, threaten our people’s safety, or disrupt world peace," KCNA emphasized.
No Interest in Denuclearization Talks
South Korean media interpreted KCNA’s comments as a clear signal that Pyongyang has no intention of resuming negotiations with Washington on denuclearization.
North Korea has never officially disclosed the number of nuclear warheads in its arsenal. However, Western intelligence estimates suggest a growing stockpile:
- In 2020, U.S. intelligence estimated Pyongyang had 20–60 nuclear warheads, with the ability to produce six more per year.
- In 2024, a report by the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) concluded North Korea had enough fissile material to build 70–90 warheads, with around 50 already assembled.
- Lee Sang-kyu, a South Korean nuclear expert, estimated North Korea possesses 80–90 nuclear warheads and could expand its arsenal to 166 by 2030.
During a January 29 visit to a nuclear facility, Kim Jong-un declared that North Korea faces "the world’s most unstable security situation", citing ongoing confrontation with "the most aggressive hostile nations." He vowed to strengthen Pyongyang’s nuclear capabilities.
Trump Administration's Tougher Approach
On February 7, President Donald Trump met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House, where both leaders pledged to ensure North Korea ends its nuclear weapons program.
This stance contradicts earlier predictions that President Trump might push for nuclear arms reduction rather than full denuclearization. Speculation arose after Trump referred to North Korea as a "nuclear power" during his January 20 inauguration speech.
(Sources: Reuters, KCNA, Korea Herald)
