North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to exponentially increase the country's nuclear weapons arsenal in response to perceived threats from the United States and its allies. In a speech marking the 76th anniversary of North Korea's founding, Kim emphasized the need to perfect the nation's nuclear capabilities and maintain readiness for combat. He criticized the expansion of a U.S.-led regional military bloc as a grave threat and condemned recent U.S.-South Korean defense guidelines integrating nuclear and conventional weapons. North Korea has also resumed missile tests and other military activities, signaling potential provocations as the U.S. presidential election approaches. The regime's commitment to nuclear armament is enshrined in its constitution and supported by its alliances with Russia and China.