North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a significant increase in his country’s nuclear weapons production and a more active role in a “new Cold War” coalition against the United States (US). These statements were made during a two-day session of the parliament’s constitutional amendment, which includes a policy of expanding the country’s nuclear weapons program. [1]
This can be seen as a reflection of North Korea’s foreign policy and strategy and a reaction to security threats. North Korea seems to be trying to gain a more influential position internationally. Nuclear weapons are considered as an essential tool to achieve this goal.
These statements of Kim came after his visit to Russia’s Asia-Pacific Region and his meetings with President Vladimir Putin. [2] The visit raised the prospect of an arms alliance in which North Korea would provide Putin with the munitions he needs to support its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and advanced Russian technology to strengthen North Korea’s nuclear and missile systems.
Seeking to break out of diplomatic isolation, Pyongyang is actively strengthening its partnerships with Moscow and Beijing in an effort to join a united front against Washington. Indeed, Kim has stated that the world has entered a “new Cold War” and that North Korea must advance its nuclear capabilities in response. [3]
The visit in question can be seen as a reflection of North Korea’s efforts to strengthen its relations with Russia and seek more strategic partnerships in the international arena. Expectations, especially in terms of military aid and technology transfer from Russia, may be effective in North Korea’s approach towards Russia. Kim also appears to be pursuing a strategy to increase his effectiveness in diplomacy and foreign relations with the end of pandemic restrictions. This strategy may aim to break North Korea’s isolation and become a more effective player in the international arena. It also emphasizes the need to strengthen North Korea’s relations with the international community.
Kim’s remarks were reported by the North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This came a day after North Korea confirmed the release of US military personnel Travis King. However, there was a possibility that North Korea could have extended King’s detention and obtained concessions from the United States. This option, however, could have seriously damaged Pyongyang’s relations with Washington.
KCNA reported that the members of the parliament unanimously approved the article on the rapid development of nuclear weapons in order to promote the country’s right to existence and development, deter war, and rapidly promote regional and global peace to a high level. In his parliamentary speech, Kim emphasized the need to “greatly increase the production of nuclear weapons and accelerate work to diversify the means of nuclear attack.”
Kim expressed concern about the expanding military cooperation between the US, South Korea and Japan and the creation of an “Asian version of NATO,” which is “the root cause of war and aggression.” Kim asked his diplomats to “further promote solidarity among nations standing against the hegemony strategies of the United States and the West.” [4]
Kim’s statements provide important clues to understand the complexity of Pyongyang’s security strategies and its position in the international arena. Kim’s expression of concern over US-South Korea-Japan military cooperation highlights the complexity of regional security dynamics. Security and defense strategies play an essential role in interregional relations, and such explanations can help understand geopolitical tensions and regional security equations.
In conclusion, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s statements and strategic approach can be considered as a reflection of an effort to strengthen North Korea’s role in international relations and adapt its security strategies. This strategic approach can be considered as an essential element in understanding regional and global security dynamics.
[1] “North Korean Leader Urges Greater Nuclear Weapons Production in Response to a ‘New Cold War’”, Associated Press News, https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-kim-cold-war-nuclear-72087705d2276860fbe4edd999930ba8, (Erişim Tarihi: 28.09.2023).
[2] “North Korean Leader Urges Greater Nuclear Weapons Production in Response to a ‘New Cold War’”, ABC News, https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/north-korean-leader-urges-greater-nuclear-weapons-production-103548709, (Erişim Tarihi: 28.09.2023).
[3] Same page.
[4] Same place.
