North Korean leader Kim Jong Un affirmed that his country is ready to deploy nuclear deterrent forces in anticipation of any military clash with the United States, amid indications that Pyongyang may conduct its first nuclear test since 2017.

Kim made these remarks during a speech on the 69th anniversary of the Korean War armistice on July 27, which means that the two Koreas are still effectively at war, according to the Korean Central News Agency.

Nuclear Threats

Kim also said that confrontation with the United States imposes nuclear threats due to the conflict meaning that North Korea must achieve an "urgent historical mission" by strengthening its self-defense.

He continued, "Our armed forces are fully prepared to handle any crisis, and our nuclear deterrent forces are fully ready to deploy their absolute power to carry out their mission faithfully, accurately, and immediately."

The speech was delivered after officials in Seoul and Washington said Pyongyang had completed preparations to conduct its first nuclear test since 2017.

Kim Attacks South Korea

Meanwhile, the South Korean Ministry of Unification, responsible for inter-Korean affairs, said there is a "possibility" of the test taking place on the anniversary date, although military officials stated there are no immediate indications of this.

Kim attacked South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s government, saying its attempts to preemptively strangle North Korea would be met with a harsh and "annihilating" response.

He also added, "I clearly say again that North Korea is fully prepared for any military confrontation with the United States."

It is worth noting that North Korea has tested hypersonic missiles and missiles it said are capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons in recent months, reducing the time available to Seoul to respond to any potential attack.