Kim Jong Un, Supreme Leader of North Korea, has addressed the United States government in a rare and shocking statement, coming shortly after plans to expand the nation's nuclear arsenal.
Many are worried that increased tensions between a number of the world's leading powers aren't just pushing closer than ever towards World War 3 but to complete nuclear destruction, as various nations have conducted new weapons tests.
The main point of conflict appears to be between the United States, China, and Russia, with the latter intersecting with the ongoing invasion of Ukraine that only recently passed its fourth anniversary.
One global power that's perhaps not taken into account quite as much as it should be is North Korea, as while tensions remain with the comparatively isolated nation, it could prove to be a significant threat under the wrong circumstances.
Advert
This was amplified following the recently five-yearly party congress, where North Korea's Supreme Leader announced the intention to expand its nuclear arsenal and operational range, amid continued threats against its southern neighbor.
As reported by the BBC, state media outlet KCNA outlined that Kim Jong Un designated South Korea as his country's "most hostile entity," adding that "as long as South Korea cannot escape the geopolitical conditions of having a border with us, the only way to live safely is to give up everything related to us and leave us alone."
While much of his furore was aimed towards his closest rival, it appears as if this animosity could potentially open up an unexpected praetorship, outlined in a rare message to the United States government.
Kim appeared to welcome friendly talks with President Donald Trump, illustrating that if Washington "respects our present [nuclear] position as stipulated in the Constitution... and withdraws its hostile policy... there is no reason why we cannot get along well with the United States."
Previously, South Korea was the main route to relations between the US and North Korea, but this could now seemingly be achieved independently.
Kim, however, did note that the future "depends entirely on the US attitude," adding: "Whether it's peaceful coexistence or permanent confrontation, we are ready for either, and the choice is not ours to make."
It's not just Kim that the US government has to worry about either, as the Supreme Leader already appears to have lined up his successor with his daughter, 13-year-old Kim Ju-ae, seemingly next in line when it comes to command of the nation's nuclear arsenal.