North Korea says hostile US policy unchanged, vows to strengthen nuclear force

North Korea's foreign ministry spokesperson stated on Monday that the United States' hostile policy towards the country remained unchanged, vowing to continue bolstering its nuclear arsenal. The spokesperson criticized Washington for its commitment to the "complete denuclearisation" of North Korea, its criticism of the nation's human rights record, and the planned joint military exercises with South Korea and Japan.

The spokesperson emphasized that North Korea's nuclear weapons were a crucial defense mechanism for its sovereignty and security interests, and that any reduction in its nuclear capabilities would be meaningless. The spokesperson also dismissed any hope of a reduction in regional tensions, stating that North Korea's policy towards the US remained unchanged.

The statement came after US President Donald Trump announced a significant reduction in the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises between the US and South Korea, citing his "very good relationship" with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and claiming the drills were costly and intimidating to Pyongyang. Despite the drill reduction, North Korea's sister, Kim Yo Jong, maintained that the exercises remained provocative and aggressive.

Meanwhile, the US, South Korea, and Japan are scheduled to hold the Freedom Edge exercise from September 7 to 11, aimed at improving coordination against nuclear and missile threats, according to Seoul's military. North Korea has consistently denounced the trilateral drill as a threat to regional security.