RismadarVoice Reporters
September 19, 2026
North Korea has rejected a resolution by the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, criticising its nuclear programme, declaring that its status as a nuclear-armed state is “irreversible.”
The North Korean Foreign Ministry said on Saturday that the resolution would not affect Pyongyang’s nuclear policy, accusing the United States and other Western countries of attempting to pressure the country into abandoning its weapons programme.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson said North Korea’s nuclear status was backed by its deterrent capability and would not be changed by resolutions adopted by the international nuclear watchdog.
PYONGYANG ACCUSES IAEA OF DOUBLE STANDARDS
Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, separately accused the IAEA of applying what she described as a biased standard in its treatment of nuclear activities.
She criticised the agency over its approach to the United States and South Korea, while defending Pyongyang’s nuclear programme as necessary for national security.
The claims represent North Korea’s position and do not alter international restrictions and UN measures concerning its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.
The statements come as Washington and Seoul have recently indicated interest in renewed engagement with Pyongyang.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Friday that US President Donald Trump was interested in dialogue with North Korea and that Seoul would work to facilitate potential talks.
Trump has also indicated that he plans to meet Kim Jong Un later this year, potentially reopening direct diplomacy between Washington and Pyongyang.
Meanwhile, North Korean state media reported that Kim carried out a three-day inspection of major munitions factories this week as the country continues to develop its defence industry.
Despite renewed discussion about diplomacy, significant differences remain over North Korea’s nuclear programme, with Pyongyang maintaining that its nuclear status is not open to negotiation.
