INTERNATIONAL — June 23, 2026
Kim Jong Un Vows to Maintain North Korea as a Nuclear Power
The remarks came at a Workers’ Party Central Committee meeting, where he also directed criticism at U.S. policies and ordered advances in conventional military projects.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Khaama Press — corroborated by Ariana News — 2 min read

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared during a high-level party meeting that North Korea will maintain its position as a nuclear power. He explained that this is necessary to counter the complex security threats present in the global environment today.
Kim placed blame on the United States for its role in escalating conflicts. Specific references were made to situations unfolding in Europe as well as in the Middle East.
The North Korean leader further accused the United States and South Korea of heightening tensions specifically on the Korean Peninsula. This criticism centered on their ongoing nuclear cooperation and broader military activities.
In his directives, Kim called for the strengthening of conventional arms. He specifically ordered the construction of a strategic warship that is to be equipped with guided missiles.
The meeting of the Workers’ Party Central Committee occurred over the period from Saturday to Monday. In addition to defense matters, the agenda included efforts to modernize the coal industry. Redevelopment plans for mining communities were also part of the discussions.
Overall, the event highlights the continued commitment of North Korea to its nuclear status while pursuing other military enhancements.
Read the original reporting at Khaama Press →
Reliability assessment
Both sources independently corroborate the core event: Kim Jong Un's on-record statements at the Workers' Party Central Committee meeting via the North Korean state news agency (KCNA). The verifiable fact is that these statements were made, with consistent attribution across outlets despite minor detail variations.
The source language reads straight.
Across the newsrooms
Where reports agree
- Kim Jong Un pledged to preserve and strengthen North Korea's nuclear status as a deterrent
- Kim accused the US of contributing to global instability and criticized US-South Korea cooperation
- Kim ordered accelerated conventional weapons development including a new strategic warship
- North Korea rejects denuclearization and declares itself a permanent nuclear state
Where reports differ
- Ariana News specifies the warship as 10,000-ton; Khaama Press does not provide tonnage details
- Ariana News reports additional emphasis on coal industry modernization; Khaama Press does not mention it
Filed by 2 outlets
Khaama Press
Originating
Reported straight
Reported straight
Ariana News
Reported straight
Reported straight
Filed under
International — Kim Jong Un, North Korea, Nuclear Weapons, Workers Party Central Committee
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