Overview

• North Korea has urged the United States to abandon what it describes as military threats, linking U.S. mainland security to a cessation of aggressive actions abroad.
• A statement from North Korea's defense ministry criticized recent U.S. military actions, including an intercontinental ballistic missile test and increased arms buildup.
• Pyongyang claims its nuclear and military developments are self-defensive measures against perceived U.S. aggression and instability caused by its nuclear arms expansion.
• North Korea accused U.S. military officials of making provocative remarks that hint at the possibility of war between the two nations.
• The statement underscores North Korea's commitment to strengthening its war deterrent in response to what it views as unreasonable U.S. military posturing.