The self-proclaimed nuclear power North Korea wants to increase the readiness of its armed forces for a war on the Korean peninsula. At an extended meeting in Pyongyang, the central military commission of the Workers’ Party decided on important military guidelines for the deployment of units on the front line and forward-looking planning for new war exercises, the state-controlled media reported.
Ruler Kim Jong Un signed a corresponding order, it said. Kim analyzed the situation on the peninsula and its surroundings and came to the conclusion “to increase the war preparations of the people’s army in an offensive manner”. The goal is to neutralize all forms of enemy attack should war break out.
According to observers, the decisions are also another reaction by Pyongyang to South Korea’s increased military cooperation with the United States. An official at the Ministry of Unification in Seoul told journalists that North Korea could also want to send a “threatening message” directly to South Korea. He accused North Korea of endangering peace and stability on the peninsula.
The North Korean reports accused “hostile forces” of working towards a military confrontation with North Korea. North Korea, which is subject to international sanctions because of its nuclear weapons program, sees the United States and its ally South Korea as its enemies.
USA and South Korea want to expand military cooperation
Tensions have recently increased significantly. After an unprecedented series of missile tests last year, North Korea has again tested nuclear-capable missiles several times this year. The US and South Korea agreed in April to strengthen their military cooperation and, among other things, to expand their joint military exercises. Both countries are currently preparing for a new maneuver in South Korea.
At the Pyongyang meeting, Kim Jong Un also reportedly fired former chief of staff Pak Su Il and replaced him with Ri Yong Gil. Preparations for a new military parade to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic on September 9 were also discussed.
