North Korea on Thursday denounced a potential U.S. arms sale to South Korea and U.S. funding for documenting North Korean human rights violations as evidence of continued hostility toward Pyongyang. A foreign ministry spokesperson said the moves add a new threat to DPRK security and create instability in its social system. The North warned that it will respond with immediate and powerful measures. The statement came as Donald Trump has signaled willingness to resume dialogue with Kim Jong-un.
A F-15K fighter jet fires an AIM-9X air-to-air missile during a training session over a West Sea firing range in this photo provided by the South Korean Air Force, May 20. Courtesy of Republic of Korea Air Force
North Korea denounced Thursday a potential U.S. arms sale to South Korea and a plan to fund millions of dollars for documenting North Korean human rights violations as proof of continued hostility toward Pyongyang.
A spokesperson for the North's foreign ministry issued the criticism, referring to a recent announcement last week by the U.S. State Department on its approval for a potential sale of AIM-9X air-to-air missiles and related equipment to Seoul.
South Korea had requested the purchase of 103 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missile and 10 guidance units, among other defense items.
