North Korea Slams U.S. Over South Korea, Japan's Nuclear Submarine Push

On September 16, North Korea condemned the United States for allegedly encouraging South Korea and Japan to pursue nuclear-powered submarines. This criticism comes in response to comments made by a U.S. Navy official regarding the necessity of a clear rationale for such pursuits, which North Korea interprets as an instigation.

In a statement published by the Korean Central News Agency, a North Korean analyst claimed that the discussions surrounding nuclear submarines were aimed at provoking both nations to acquire them. He accused the U.S. of being the 'major chieftain of worldwide nuclear proliferation' and criticized its security partnerships, particularly AUKUS, for extending nuclear technology to allies.

The analyst noted that the push for nuclear submarines by South Korea and Japan represents a dangerous escalation of U.S. military strategies in the Asia-Pacific region. He labeled these actions as reckless and a threat to global nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

North Korea emphasized the need to enhance its own nuclear capabilities in response to what it perceives as a growing threat from the U.S. and its allies. The regime insists that it must bolster its nuclear deterrent both qualitatively and quantitatively to counteract these developments.