DPRK Warns of Strong Counteractions Against U.S.-Led Sanctions Efforts

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has issued a stern warning in response to recent U.S.-led discussions on tightening sanctions over its nuclear and missile programs. 

In a press statement released on February 23, the chief of the External Policy Office of the DPRK Foreign Ministry condemned the meeting of the steering committee of the "Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team" (MSMT), which took place in Washington.

The statement criticized the MSMT as an "illegal, illegitimate and criminal ghost group," arguing that it undermines international peace and security rather than contributing to it. The DPRK accused the U.S. and its allies of attempting to hinder its sovereign rights under the guise of enforcing sanctions, warning that such actions could provoke "serious backfire" that would be difficult for them to handle.

The statement emphasized that the DPRK views sanctions relief through negotiations as irrelevant, asserting that it has already adapted to and survived the harshest external pressures. The Foreign Ministry noted that U.S. sanctions have only strengthened the DPRK's resolve to enhance its self-sufficiency and build a formidable defensive capability.

The DPRK also made it clear that while it disregards international sanctions, it will respond decisively to any perceived violations of its sovereignty. The statement concluded with a warning that those involved in what it called "illegal anti-DPRK sanctions-breeding moves" would face severe consequences.

This declaration highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the DPRK's nuclear and missile activities, as well as the international community's continued efforts to curb them through sanctions. The situation remains delicate, with the potential for escalated confrontations if diplomatic solutions are not pursued.