Kim Jong Un Declares North Korea’s Nuclear Status ‘Irreversible,’ Rejects U.S. Pressure

Pyongyang (The Uttam Hindu): North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has once again doubled down on his nuclear-first policy, declaring that his country’s reliance on nuclear weapons for survival and sovereignty is non-negotiable.

According to Yonhap News Agency, citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim made these remarks on Friday while meeting nuclear scientists and technicians during a high-level consultation on nuclear material and weapons production. His statement came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration reaffirmed its commitment to North Korea’s “complete” denuclearization.

At the meeting, Kim emphasized that continuous preparation to advance the country’s nuclear stance is a “top-priority essential task,” calling it an “irreversible duty.” He made it clear that nuclear power is North Korea’s true shield and sword, guaranteeing sovereignty and national security. KCNA reported that Kim expressed satisfaction over the “key tasks” already completed to enhance the nation’s nuclear capability, though he did not specify what those tasks were.

The meeting was attended by senior official Hong Sung-mu, known for his role in leading North Korea’s nuclear program. In his recent parliamentary speech, Kim also stated that North Korea is open to talks with the U.S., but only if Washington drops its demand for nuclear disarmament. He reiterated that Pyongyang will never compromise on nuclear weapons, underscoring that the country’s “irreversible” nuclear status is enshrined in its constitution.

According to a South Korean minister, North Korea is estimated to possess nearly 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium and operates centrifuges at four different locations to accumulate nuclear material.