North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, has warned of more provocative military displays in response to a US-South Korea agreement aimed at countering the North’s nuclear threat. Her comments come after US President Joe Biden’s remark that a North Korean nuclear attack on the US or its allies would “result in the end of whatever regime” launched the action.
Kim Yo Jong, one of Kim Jong Un’s leading foreign policy officials, stated that the agreement reflects a “hostile and aggressive will of action” against the North and will put peace in the region in “more serious danger”. This sentiment was reiterated during a meeting between Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Washington, where they announced new nuclear deterrence efforts aimed at bolstering the US-South Korea alliance and countering the North’s nuclear ambitions.
North Korea has been testing missiles at an unprecedented rate since the start of 2022, with Kim Jong Un widely expected to up the ante in the coming months as he accelerates a campaign aimed at cementing the North’s status as a nuclear power. The recent agreement between the US and South Korea is seen as a response to this growing threat, with the two countries committing to plans for bilateral presidential consultations in the event of a North Korean nuclear attack, the establishment of a nuclear consultative group, and improved sharing of information on nuclear and strategic weapons operation plans.
Kim Yo Jong lashed out at Biden for being “too miscalculating and irresponsibly brave”, but did not dismiss his words as a “nonsensical remark from the person in his dotage”. Instead, she warned that Biden’s words were “threatening rhetoric for which he should be prepared for far too great an after storm”. She also stated that the North would not simply ignore the agreement, but would respond in proportion to the perceived threat.
Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong (Via Kim Yo Jong/Twitter)
The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region, with North Korea’s growing nuclear ambitions and missile tests sparking concerns about a potential conflict. Kim Yo Jong’s warning of more provocative military displays further escalates the situation, leaving the international community on high alert.
While the US-South Korea agreement is aimed at countering the North’s nuclear threat, Kim Yo Jong’s comments suggest that the North will not back down without a fight. Instead, she warned that the North would respond in kind, further escalating the situation. The remarks also highlight the challenges of going the complex web of international relations in the region.
Kim Yo Jong’s warning of more provocative military displays in response to the US-South Korea agreement highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries. As the situation continues to escalate, it is essential for the international community to remain vigilant and work towards a peaceful resolution.
