North Korea Asserts Permanent Nuclear Status Amid International Pressure

Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has declared that North Korea's status as a nuclear weapons state is irreversible, responding to calls for denuclearization from the United States and its allies. Her remarks came after a joint statement from the foreign ministers of South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. reaffirmed their commitment to complete denuclearization of North Korea. Kim emphasized that any external pressure for disarmament is seen as a hostile act that infringes on North Korea’s sovereignty. Furthermore, she stated that North Korea's nuclear capabilities are a constitutional commitment, shaped by perceived external threats. Analysts believe North Korea's nuclear ambitions pose significant challenges to U.S. denuclearization policies, especially after previous diplomatic efforts failed to yield results. As relations with Russia strengthen amid ongoing global tensions, the likelihood of a peaceful resolution appears increasingly remote.