Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a senior Workers’ Party official, accused the United States of driving rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula and across the region.
According to North Korea’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim criticised the Pacific Vanguard 2026 multinational naval exercise near Guam.
The exercise involves the United States, South Korea, Japan and other participating countries.
Kim described the drills as a threatening “war game”. She accused Washington of expanding its military influence in the Asia-Pacific through alliances.
North Korea Warns of Stronger Response
Kim also criticised growing military cooperation between the United States, Japan and South Korea.
She claimed that North Korea remained the primary target of the trilateral security cooperation.
“The present situation stresses the need to break records in our responsive action,” Kim said, adding that North Korea could adopt measures that were proportional or more offensive in nature.
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She said Pyongyang would not change its policy of strengthening nuclear deterrence.
Kim also warned that North Korea could “mobilise all means available” if it faced what it considered a serious threat to its sovereignty or security.
The comments reinforce Pyongyang’s longstanding position that it views US-led military activities and regional security cooperation as threats to its national security.
South Korea Pushes for Renewed Dialogue
Kim’s warning came as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for efforts to revive dialogue between Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump.
Speaking at a televised news conference on Friday, Lee said the possibility of renewed talks should not be ruled out.
He said Seoul should make its “utmost” effort to facilitate another meeting between the North Korean and US leaders.
Lee said renewed dialogue between Washington and Pyongyang could help restart inter-Korean talks.
He also said such engagement could support efforts to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
The contrasting statements highlight the challenge facing regional governments as military exercises continue alongside calls for renewed diplomatic engagement.
