Kim Jong Un Pledges to Expand Nuclear Arsenal, Rejecting Trump's Outreach

North Korea's leader condemns U.S., South Korea, and Japan's military cooperation, labeling it a threat to regional security.

Kim Jong Un vowed to strengthen North Korea's nuclear weapons program during the 77th anniversary of the Korean People's Army.
He criticized U.S.-led military drills with South Korea and Japan, describing them as preparations for invasion and a 'NATO-like' threat.
Kim dismissed President Donald Trump's renewed offer for diplomatic talks, signaling no interest in reviving negotiations.
North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russia's war in Ukraine, further straining its relations with the U.S. and its allies.
Experts note that Pyongyang views its nuclear arsenal as essential for regime legitimacy and as a counterbalance to perceived security threats.