North Korea’s Kim oversees simulated nuclear counterattack against U.S. and South Korea
NBCNov 23, 2022
Report: N. Korea Simulates 'Nuclear Counterattack’
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Image copyright: Al Jazeera and news agencies
The Facts
North Korea over the weekend held two days of drills that simulated a nuclear counterattack — including the firing of a ballistic missile carrying a mock nuclear warhead — all under the supervision of leader Kim Jong Un, according to state news agency KCNA.
Kim expressed satisfaction with the drills, which the report said were held "to let relevant units get familiar with the procedures and processes for implementing their tactical nuclear attack missions."
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
These tests are a continuation of North Korea’s unpredictability and repeated threats, which have put the stability of the region at risk. Extended deterrence by the US and South Korea is the only option until Kim is willing to return to the negotiating table.
Establishment-critical narrative
The US can’t deny that it bears the main responsibility for declining diplomatic relations with North Korea, especially as the Biden administration has switched back to a confrontational course following former Pres. Trump's efforts at de-escalation. By fueling conflict, the US hopes to establish closer ties with Japan and South Korea to cut into China’s regional influence.
