South Korean President Lee Jae-myung revealed that North Korea can produce enough nuclear material to build approximately 10 to 20 nuclear weapons annually. He warned that if the arsenal overflows across borders, it would become a global threat. He proposed using a "Donald Trump" style negotiation approach as a key to resolving the situation.
President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea held a press conference on the occasion of the New Year, revealing that North Korea continues to produce nuclear material in massive quantities, which could lead to an expansion of weapons of mass destruction beyond what the world can handle.
President Lee stated that North Korea currently can produce nuclear material sufficient to build 10 to 20 weapons per year, alongside developing intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) technology aimed at striking the U.S. mainland. "At some point, North Korea will have enough nuclear weapons and ICBM capability as it desires to maintain political power. If it has more than needed, these materials will be exported beyond its borders, which is the start of a global danger."
North Korea has long justified its nuclear and missile programs as a deterrent against U.S. and allied attempts to change its regime. Despite North Korea's continuous disregard for South Korea's negotiation offers, President Lee, who favors diplomacy over the previous administration's tougher stance, views U.S. President Donald Trump's unique personality as a "key asset" in negotiations with Kim Jong-un.
"The Trump-style approach seems very helpful when dealing with Kim Jong-un. I am willing to assist in managing the process," he said, adding that the main goal is to halt nuclear material production, ICBM development, and technology exports abroad, which would benefit all parties.
This statement was made amid heightened tensions after North Korea accused South Korea of sending drones to infiltrate Kaesong, a city near the border.
Although the South Korean presidential office denied government involvement, it hinted the act might have been carried out by civilians. Recently, a man claimed responsibility for sending the drones, stating the purpose was to "measure radiation levels" at a uranium processing plant on the North Korean side.
,AFP