North Korea Declares Nuclear Arsenal Non-Negotiable Amid US-Japan Talks

North Korea has declared that its nuclear weapons are not intended for negotiations but are for combat use, according to an announcement by the state media on February 8. The statement emphasizes that these weapons are meant to protect the nation against threats to its sovereignty and world peace. This revelation comes in response to recent overtures from US President Donald Trump, who expressed interest in resuming contact with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Despite Trump's efforts, North Korea has not directly responded to his overtures. Instead, the country has reiterated its intention to "bolster" its nuclear capabilities. In a statement from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korea made it clear that its nuclear arsenal is not a "bargaining chip" but a crucial element for national defense.

"Our nuclear weapons are not an advertisement to get anyone's recognition and even less a bargaining chip to be exchanged for some money," – KCNA

"Our nuclear forces are for unwavering combat use to swiftly eliminate any attempts by enemy forces that infringe on our country's sovereignty and the safety of our people and threaten world peace," – KCNA

The statement came as President Trump hosted Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House. During their meeting on Friday, Trump remarked that he "will have relations with North Korea and with Kim Jong Un," highlighting his previous rapport with the North Korean leader. The two leaders issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to ensuring North Korea ends its nuclear weapons program.

Despite Trump's remarks acknowledging North Korea as a "nuclear power," there remains uncertainty about whether he will pursue arms reduction talks. The joint statement with Prime Minister Ishiba underscores the continued pressure on North Korea to dismantle its nuclear arsenal.

North Korea's declaration follows a summit meeting between Trump and Kim Jong Un during Trump's first presidency. However, the latest statement from KCNA does not mention the recent US-Japan talks but instead references comments from NATO and European Union officials demanding complete denuclearization.