North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Declares Nuclear Program Will Continue

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the country’s nuclear capabilities, declaring that the program will continue “indefinitely” despite renewed diplomatic efforts from U.S. President Donald Trump.

State-run media outlet KCNA reported Wednesday that Kim made the statement during a visit to a key nuclear-material production facility, where he stressed that strengthening North Korea’s nuclear deterrent remains a top priority. His remarks come just days after Trump expressed interest in reopening negotiations with Pyongyang.

“It is our unwavering policy to enhance the nuclear counteraction posture indefinitely in response to persistent threats from hostile nations,” Kim was quoted as saying. He further warned that 2025 would be a “crucial year” for North Korea’s military advancements.

The announcement follows North Korea’s latest weapons test, in which it fired strategic cruise missiles from a submarine over the weekend. The test marked Pyongyang’s first military demonstration since Trump assumed office on January 20, signaling defiance against U.S. calls for renewed engagement.

Trump, who previously met Kim multiple times during his first term, described the North Korean leader as a “smart guy” in a recent interview and suggested he would attempt to restart diplomatic discussions. However, Kim’s latest declaration suggests Pyongyang has no intention of rolling back its nuclear program.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high, with relations between North and South Korea at their lowest in years. The North has carried out numerous ballistic missile launches in violation of United Nations sanctions, while maintaining that its nuclear arsenal is necessary to counter perceived threats from Washington and its allies.

With both sides appearing firm in their positions, the prospect of denuclearization remains uncertain, setting the stage for another period of geopolitical friction in East Asia.