In a recent statement, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Kim Yo Jong, declared North Korea's intention to enhance its nuclear war capability following the arrival of a nuclear-powered U.S. submarine in South Korea. This move comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, with North Korea unveiling a uranium-enrichment facility and conducting a new ballistic missile test.
Kim Yo Jong emphasized the need to continuously strengthen North Korea's nuclear deterrent in response to what she described as the U.S.'s military and strategic provocations. She asserted that U.S. strategic assets would not be tolerated in the Korean Peninsula region.
The USS Vermont, a nuclear-powered submarine, docked in Busan, South Korea, for resupply and crew rest. While temporary deployments of U.S. military assets to South Korea are not uncommon, recent increases have been seen as a show of force against North Korea's nuclear threats.
North Korea's recent actions, including the unveiling of a uranium-enrichment facility and missile tests, have heightened tensions in the region. The country has also engaged in a psychological campaign by sending balloons carrying trash towards South Korea, prompting concerns about potential hazards to civilians.
South Korea's military has warned of potential military action if North Korea's balloon campaign poses a significant threat to civilian safety. However, shooting down the balloons midair is not being considered due to the risk of hazardous substances being present.
The situation remains fluid, with both North and South Korea engaging in provocative actions that could further escalate tensions in the region.
