North Korea Boosts Nuclear Capacity

The International — International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi has confirmed a "very serious increase" in North Korea's ability to produce nuclear weapons. This assessment is based on a rapid rise in operations at the Yongbyon nuclear site, including its reactor, reprocessing unit, and light-water reactor, as well as the activation of other facilities. The International — International Atomic Energy Agency also observed the construction of a new uranium enrichment facility, with satellite imagery from the Center for Strategic and International Studies supporting this assessment. North Korea's nuclear program is now estimated at a few dozen warheads. Grossi also urged South Korea to work closely with the International — International Atomic Energy Agency to avert proliferation risks associated with its plans to build nuclear-powered submarines, a plan approved by the United States under President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. While North Korea is under United Nations sanctions for its weapons programs, the International — International Atomic Energy Agency has not found evidence of Russia assisting North Korea's nuclear development, despite reports of North Korea sending troops and artillery to Russia in exchange for military technology.