Kim Jong Un warns Trump as US pummels Iran, ‘prepared to respond’ with nukes to any confrontation with American hegemony

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sharpened his rhetoric against the United States, accusing it of “state terrorism and aggression” while declaring that Pyongyang’s nuclear weapons programme is “absolutely irreversible.” His remarks, delivered at a session of North Korea’s Supreme People’s Assembly, come at a time of heightened global tensions following US-led military action in Iran.

Kim frames US as ‘Imperialist’ power, signals readiness to respond

In his address, Kim directly criticised the United States, portraying it as a destabilising global force engaged in military aggression. Without naming Donald Trump, he issued a pointed warning:


“Choose confrontation or peaceful coexistence is up to them, and we are prepared to respond to any choice.”

His rhetoric reflects a longstanding North Korean narrative that casts the US as a hegemonic power seeking regime change, an argument now reinforced, in Pyongyang’s view, by developments in the Middle East.

Diplomatic engagement between North Korea and the United States has remained frozen since the collapse of the 2019 summit over disagreements on sanctions relief and denuclearisation steps.

In the years since, Kim has pivoted toward closer ties with Russia, reportedly providing military support for Moscow’s war in Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and technological assistance.

At the same time, Kim appears to be keeping diplomatic options open, suggesting that future engagement with Washington is possible, but only on terms that respect North Korea’s nuclear status.

Iran conflict shapes North Korea’s messaging

Kim’s speech comes against the backdrop of escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. US-led strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure and leadership have triggered retaliatory drone and missile attacks across the Middle East, raising fears of a wider regional war.

Analysts say North Korea is closely watching these developments. The conflict has reinforced Pyongyang’s belief that nuclear deterrence is essential for regime survival, particularly after high-profile attacks on Iranian assets and leadership.

North Korea has historically drawn lessons from global conflicts, especially those involving US intervention, to justify its weapons programs. The recent escalation with Iran appears to have strengthened Kim’s resolve to accelerate nuclear and missile development.

‘Irreversible’ nuclear status declared

In his address, Kim emphasized that North Korea’s nuclear capabilities are non-negotiable and permanent. He described the country’s rapid expansion of nuclear weapons and delivery systems as the “right” strategic choice in response to what he called “hegemonic pursuits” by hostile powers.

“The dignity of the nation, its national interest and its ultimate victory can only be guaranteed by the strongest of power,” Kim said, according to state media.

Alongside his criticism of the United States, Kim intensified his rhetoric against South Korea, describing it as the “most hostile” state.