North Korea declares nuclear weapons status irreversible

North Korea has declared its nuclear weapons status to be “irreversible” following a resolution by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) criticizing its nuclear program. Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of leader Kim Jong Un, accused the IAEA of “double standards,” alleging the agency ignores nuclear activities in the United States and South Korea while condemning Pyongyang’s defensive measures.

The North Korean Foreign Ministry stated that the IAEA resolution, drafted by the U.S. and its allies, has no effect on the country’s nuclear position. This diplomatic tension follows reports from the IAEA regarding the expansion of the Yongbyon complex, including a new uranium enrichment facility that could potentially house up to 28 centrifuge cascades.

In a separate development, Kim Jong Un conducted a three-day inspection of major munitions factories. Analysts suggest North Korea is accelerating its military modernization, potentially aided by a 2024 mutual defense treaty with Russia and military experience gained from personnel deployed to the conflict in Ukraine.