Tensions are rising as North Korea has declared its intention to rapidly increase its nuclear arsenal, attributing the move to joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea. Kim Jong Un has characterized these exercises as an attempt to instigate conflict, as reported by KCNA, the state media of North Korea. The exercises, which involve the US and South Korea, are focused on strategies to address potential nuclear threats from North Korea. The exercises are referred to as Ulchi Freedom Shield and are expected to last for 11 days. The scale is similar to that of 2024, although some field training events have been postponed. Discussions between the US and its allies to halt North Korea’s nuclear ambitions are anticipated during the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. A report from the American Scientists Federation suggests North Korea could potentially manufacture up to 90 nuclear weapons, though it has only produced about 50 to date. Furthermore, North Korea plans to build a third 5,000-ton destroyer by October of the following year and is testing cruise and anti-air missiles for these warships.
