North Korea Warns US over Deployment of Nuclear Assets

 

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North Korea Warns US Over Nuclear Assets Deployment in South Korea Amid Escalating Tensions

 

According to state media, North Korea's Defence Minister, Kang Sun Nam, has issued a warning to the United States regarding the deployment of nuclear assets in South Korea. 

Kang Sun Nam stated that such deployments could meet the conditions for North Korea's use of nuclear arms, expressing concern over the "ever-increasing visibility" of strategic nuclear submarines and other assets in the region. 

US Sends Submarine with Nuclear-Armed Ballistic Missiles to South Korea 

In response to the escalating tensions, the United States sent a submarine equipped with nuclear-armed ballistic missiles to South Korea for the first time in decades, further straining the already delicate situation on the Korean Peninsula.

Joint Statement Condemning North Korea's Ballistic Missile Launch 

Amid the heightened tensions, the US, South Korea, and Japan released a joint statement condemning North Korea's recent intercontinental ballistic missile launch. 

The statement reiterated the US commitment to defend South Korea and Japan with the full range of capabilities, including nuclear deterrence. 

North Korea's Response and Escalating Tensions 

North Korea responded to the nuclear meeting with a sharp critique, warning of a potential military clash on the Korean Peninsula. 

The situation remains highly precarious as Pyongyang continues its ballistic missile testing in defiance of international sanctions and US opposition. 

US Soldier Crosses Border into North Korea, Creating a New Crisis 

In a dramatic development, a 23-year-old US soldier, Travis King, intentionally crossed into North Korea, and US officials believe he is now in North Korean custody. 

This incident has added a new layer of complexity to the already tense relations between the two countries. 

Historical Background on North Korea's Nuclear Weapons Program and Sanctions 

There is North Korea's history of nuclear weapons development, including its first nuclear weapons test in 2006, which led to the imposition of numerous UN Security Council sanctions aimed at curbing the country's nuclear and missile programs. 

North Korea Launches Ballistic Missiles Amidst US Submarine Deployment 

Amidst the US submarine deployment, North Korea launched two ballistic missiles into the eastern sea. 

The launches were condemned by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) as grave provocative acts that violate UN Security Council resolutions. 

South Korea and Japan Condemn North Korea's Missile Launches 

South Korea and Japan lodged protests against North Korea's missile launches through diplomatic channels, underscoring the destabilizing impact of North Korea's illicit weapons program on regional peace and stability.

Analysis by Professor Leif-Eric Easley

 Professor Leif-Eric Easley of Ewha University in Seoul provided analysis, stating that North Korea's latest missile launches may not be directly related to the US soldier crossing the inter-Korean border. 

However, the incidents contribute to the overall tension in the region and opposition to the US's Nuclear Consultative Group meeting and the visit of the nuclear-capable submarine. 

The situation on the Korean Peninsula remains highly precarious, with the actions and responses of all parties potentially leading to further escalation. The international community closely monitors developments as they unfold in the region.

 (Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)