North Korea has responded to a recent subcritical nuclear test conducted by the United States, stating that it adds new tension to the international nuclear arms race. The state-run KCNA news agency reported that North Korea vows to take necessary measures to improve its nuclear deterrence posture in light of this development.
The U.S. Department of Energy confirmed that the National Nuclear Security Administration carried out the subcritical experiment at its Nevada test site to gather data supporting the reliability and effectiveness of nuclear warheads. This action has prompted North Korea to reconsider its own nuclear deterrence measures within its sovereign rights.
While North Korea did not specify the exact measures it would consider, the country has conducted six underground nuclear tests in the past and is believed to be prepared for a seventh. However, South Korean officials have not observed any imminent signs of a new test.
It is important to note that subcritical nuclear tests do not involve a nuclear explosion or trigger a fissile chain reaction. The United States, a signatory to the global nuclear test ban treaty, ceased nuclear explosion tests in 1992.
North Korea is currently under U.N. Security Council sanctions for its nuclear tests and ballistic missile development. The situation remains tense as both countries navigate the complexities of nuclear deterrence and international relations.