North Korea announced on Tuesday its intention to expand its nuclear arsenal, denouncing a U.S.-led denuclearization plan as outdated and unreasonable. The statement, released by an unnamed spokesperson from the North Korean Ministry and reported by Reuters, criticized a joint pledge by the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.

The statement warned of a strong and decisive response to any actions perceived as threats to North Korean security. It asserted that North Korea’s nuclear weapons are essential for self-defense and maintaining its sovereignty as long as the U.S. and its allies remain hostile.

This announcement follows a meeting of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, and Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi at a security conference in Germany. They reiterated their commitment to North Korea’s complete denuclearization and the continuation of sanctions on its weapons programs. A joint statement also outlined plans to strengthen regional defense through expanded trilateral military exercises and enhanced military capabilities for Japan and South Korea.

Earlier this month, President [Name of President redacted to avoid misinformation] hosted Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House. The President stated that the U.S. will maintain relations with the North Korean regime under Kim Jong Un, highlighting his personal rapport with the North Korean leader.

The President’s comments reflect his aim to build upon the personal diplomacy established with Kim Jong Un, including their meetings in 2018 and 2019, and a crossing into North Korean territory from the demilitarized zone.

Digital’s Chris Massaro and