Kim Yo Jong criticized the Trump administration for increasing military provocations against North Korea, justifying the country’s nuclear deterrent enhancements. She condemned the USS Carl Vinson’s visit to South Korea and the deployment of US bombers. South Korea’s defense ministry dismissed Kim’s comments as deceptive, denying legitimacy to North Korea’s nuclear weapons development.
On March 4, 2025, Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, criticized the Trump administration, accusing it of escalating military provocations. State media KCNA reported her comments, which indicated that this increasing hostility warranted an enhancement of North Korea’s nuclear deterrent capabilities.
Kim specifically condemned the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier’s recent visit to South Korea, calling it an act that reflects a confrontational stance towards North Korea. She stated, “As soon as its new administration appeared this year, the US has stepped up the political and military provocations against the DPRK, ‘carrying forward’ the former administration’s hostile policy.”
The South Korean Defence Ministry responded, asserting that Kim’s statements were misleading attempts to rationalize North Korea’s nuclear missile programs. The Ministry reinforced that, “North Korea’s nuclear weapons are never acceptable, and the only way for North Korea to survive is to abandon its obsession and delusion about nuclear (weapons).”
The USS Carl Vinson’s docking in Busan was noted as a demonstration of military strength amidst ongoing tensions, marking the first visit of a US aircraft carrier to South Korea since Trump’s second term commenced. Kim also criticized the recent flights of US B-1B strategic bombers and a security pact among the US, South Korea, and Japan aimed at denuclearization.
During his first term, Trump had notable summits with Kim Jong Un, promoting their unique relationship and hinting at further engagement. Despite these historical interactions, tensions remain high, largely due to the current geopolitical landscape.
In conclusion, Kim Yo Jong’s recent statements underscore the tense relations between North Korea and the US under the Trump administration, which she argues has intensified military provocations. The North has responded by asserting its need to bolster its nuclear capabilities, while the South Korean government firmly rejects any justification for North Korea’s nuclear ambitions. The arrival of the USS Carl Vinson only heightens the ongoing military tensions in the region.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
