South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol has warned that North Korea is likely to provoke major incidents such as nuclear tests and long-range missile launches before the upcoming US election on November 5th. Yoon pointed out that North Korea’s recent disclosure of a nuclear facility was likely an attempt to gain attention from the US and the international community in the lead-up to the election.
The increased concerns about North Korea stem from recent provocations including the unveiling of a secret uranium-enrichment facility, threats to build more nuclear weapons, and ongoing missile tests. Kim Jong Un also recently threatened to destroy South Korea with nuclear weapons if provoked.
Experts suggest that North Korea aims to expand its nuclear arsenal to gain leverage for concessions, especially with a new US president. The disclosure of a new nuclear site signifies Kim’s defiance against efforts to eliminate his nuclear program.
President Yoon has emphasized the importance of strengthening the alliance with the United States to address North Korea’s nuclear threats. He has also attempted to improve relations with Japan to enhance regional security cooperation, leading to tensions with North Korea.
Despite potential challenges if Donald Trump returns to the White House, Yoon remains confident in the “ironclad” South Korea-US alliance. He believes that bipartisan support for the alliance in the US will persist regardless of the election outcome.
Yoon highlighted that North Korea’s nuclear threats are intended to sow divisions in South Korea and consolidate control domestically. He debunked North Korea’s past claim that its nuclear development was not aimed at South Korea, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance against the threat from the North.
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