Kim Jong Un Criticizes US Diplomacy at North Korean Defense Exhibit

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un criticized past negotiations with the United States, accusing Washington of maintaining a hostile stance toward his country, according to state media reports. Kim delivered his remarks on Thursday at a defense exhibition in Pyongyang, where North Korea showcased its military arsenal, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and advanced artillery systems, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Kim’s comments come amid tensions with the United States, which he accuses of escalating military pressure on North Korea through enhanced cooperation with allies and the deployment of strategic assets. These include long-range bombers and aircraft carriers aimed at countering North Korea’s military capabilities. Kim underscored the need to accelerate nuclear armament as a means of defense, stating that possessing powerful deterrents is the key to national security.

The defense exhibition, devoid of independent media coverage, further highlighted North Korea’s military advancements, suggesting it could be a precursor to future diplomatic negotiations. Analysts believe that by bolstering its military power, North Korea aims to gain leverage over Washington and secure economic and security concessions in return.

The North Korean leader reflected on past diplomatic engagements, particularly the summits with former U.S. President Donald Trump, which ultimately stalled due to disagreements over sanctions and denuclearization. Kim, without naming Trump, expressed that these meetings only confirmed what he described as the United States’ «unchangeable hostile policy» toward North Korea.

The exhibition also drew attention due to North Korea’s deepening ties with Russia. Western governments allege that North Korea has been supplying arms to Russia for the conflict in Ukraine, contributing military equipment such as missiles and artillery. These allegations are rejected by Pyongyang, but South Korea‘s Unification Ministry continues to monitor the situation, labeling any arms transfer to Russia as a breach of U.N. Security Council resolutions.

With Donald Trump potentially returning to the U.S. presidency, experts remain skeptical over the prospect of renewed diplomacy between the United States and North Korea. Kim Jong Un’s growing alliance with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the perceived relaxation of international sanctions further complicate the possibility of favorable diplomatic resolutions.