North Korea Vice Defence Minister Says US Arms Buildup Justifies Nuclear Expansion

North Korea’s Vice Defence Minister Kim Kang Il said Thursday that the United States’ military buildup justified Pyongyang’s efforts to strengthen its nuclear capabilities, vowing to continue expanding the country’s defensive nuclear deterrent.

Speaking at China’s Xiangshan Security Forum, Kim said North Korea would move ahead with measures aimed at bolstering what he described as its self-defensive nuclear deterrent.

Kim’s remarks come as Pyongyang continues to emphasise the need to strengthen its nuclear forces in response to what it describes as threats from the United States and its allies.

The North Korean official said the country would maintain its efforts to enhance its nuclear capabilities, framing the programme as a measure for national defence.