North Korea is preparing to launch its “toughest” ever strategy to counter the United States, state media reported, following a key party meeting led by leader Kim Jong Un.
The meeting, held from December 23 to 27, was pivotal in setting the country’s direction for 2025. As per AFP, the meeting included a speech from Kim Jong Un, who outlined a strategy aimed at combating what Pyongyang views as growing US aggression, particularly in light of the expanding military ties between the US, South Korea, and Japan.
North Korea’s state news agency, KCNA, criticised the US for what it called an “anti-communist” policy and denounced the trilateral alliance as a “nuclear military bloc for aggression.” The report also accused South Korea of becoming an “anti-communist outpost” for the US in the region, urging Pyongyang to adjust its policies accordingly to address these challenges.
The meeting, which also reviewed responses to widespread flooding earlier this year, highlighted North Korea’s focus on improving relations with “friendly” nations. Kim Jong Un’s speech emphasised the need for stronger defence capabilities, especially in the context of the growing alliance between Washington and its Asian allies. This rhetoric signals a more aggressive posture as tensions with the US and its allies escalate.
In addition to setting its counter-strategy against the US, the meeting also witnessed several key leadership changes in the government, reported Reuters.
Pak Thae Song was named as the new Premier of North Korea, replacing Kim Tok Hun, and Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui was appointed to the Politburo, marking a significant reshuffle in Pyongyang’s leadership structure. These internal adjustments come as North Korea continues to navigate its expanding ties with Russia, which have raised concerns among Western allies due to mutual defence agreements and alleged military cooperation.
Growing North Korea-Russia military ties
North Korea’s strengthened military relationship with Russia has also drawn international scrutiny. Following a landmark defence pact in June, North Korean soldiers have reportedly joined Russian forces in Ukraine, with over 1,000 North Korean soldiers either killed or wounded since their deployment.
This development, alongside the broader military cooperation between the two nations, is being viewed as a “dangerous expansion” of the Ukraine conflict by Western officials.
The defence agreement, which came into force this month, has been described by Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “breakthrough document,” signaling deeper military cooperation between the two nations. According to Reuters, Putin sent a New Year’s message to Kim Jong Un on Friday, underscoring the elevated bilateral ties following their June summit.
