North Korea slams NATO military expansion

North Korea has strongly criticised the recent NATO summit, accusing the alliance of increasing military tensions and expanding confrontation with other countries.

Pyongyang’s Foreign Ministry said NATO was strengthening military blocs and increasing arms cooperation with allies in the Asia-Pacific region. It claimed the alliance was acting to protect its own geopolitical interests rather than promoting global peace.

The statement came after NATO leaders announced new defence agreements and increased military cooperation during their summit in Turkey.

North Korea accused NATO countries of presenting its military activities as a threat while ignoring what it described as the nuclear capabilities and security policies of US allies.

Pyongyang said the focus of denuclearisation should shift towards countries protected by the United States. It specifically mentioned South Korea and Japan, along with NATO members involved in nuclear-sharing arrangements.

North Korea has long rejected international demands to abandon its nuclear weapons programme. It says its nuclear capabilities are essential for protecting its sovereignty and national security.

The country said it would continue strengthening its military power and safeguarding its defence interests through what it called the responsible use of its sovereign rights.

The criticism came after NATO announced major military procurement agreements and closer defence cooperation with partners. The alliance has been increasing its focus on security challenges in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Meanwhile, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for further military modernisation. State media reported that Pyongyang is working on measures to strengthen its nuclear forces both quantitatively and qualitatively.