North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warned Saturday that his country would “fully mobilize” its nuclear force if threatened
SEOUL, South Korea — as he took center stage at a massive military parade to mark the 75th anniversary of the country’s ruling party.
The early stages of the event did not feature a display of new strategic weapons, although in the past the country’s ballistic missiles and other crucial hardware were displayed in later parts of such parades. During his speech, Kim repeatedly thanked his “great people” for overcoming “unexpected” burdens and thoroughly abiding by the anti-virus measures imposed by the ruling party and government to keep the country COVID-19-free, a claim that has been widely questioned by outside observers. He also extended an olive branch to rival South Korea, expressing hope that the countries could repair bilateral ties once the threat of the pandemic is over.
KCNA also reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a letter to Kim saying that Beijing would continue to “defend, consolidate and develop” bilateral relations with Pyongyang. Expressing deep frustrations over the diplomacy, Kim pledged in December to soon unveil a “new strategic weapon to the world” while declaring to bolster his nuclear deterrent in face of “gangster-like” U.S. pressure.
Authoritarian North Korea is keen about anniversaries, and this week’s festivities were earmarked for years in advance as a major event to glorify Kim Jong Un’s achievements as leader.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
North Korea unveils new weapons at military parade, warning 'offensive might' against outside threatsKim’s speech was punctuated by thousands of goose-stepping troops, tanks, armored vehicles, rocket launchers and a broad range of ballistic missiles.
Read more »
North Korea celebrates party anniversary amid economic woesSEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un warned Saturday that his country would “fully mobilize” its nuclear force if threatened as he took center stage at a massive military...
Read more »
North Korean Defector Who Vanished in Rome Is Now in South KoreaThe whereabouts of diplomat Jo Song Gil, who fled with the help of a clandestine group dedicated to toppling Kim Jong Un’s dictatorship, had been a mystery until legislators confirmed his presence in South Korea.
Read more »
North Korea state media quiet ahead of expected military paradeNorth Korea was expected to hold a large military parade on Saturday, possibly displaying new strategic weapons, but there was no immediate sign that state television would air the event live.
Read more »
China's Xi says intends to deepen relations with North Korea: KCNAIn a congratulatory message to Kim Jong Un for the founding anniversary of North Korea's ruling party, Chinese President Xi Jinping said he intends to deepen relations with Pyongyang, North Korean state media reported on Saturday.
Read more »