US: North Korea may continue to test nuclear weapons, missiles this year

Lieutenant General Scott Berrier, the director of the US Defense Intelligence Agency, made the comments on May 10 amid speculation that North Korea could conduct a nuclear attack. nuclear test as early as this month.

“We expect North Korea to continue its military, nuclear and missile modernization efforts in 2022 as it has emphasized strengthening its strategic deterrence and countering military capabilities. alliance between the United States and South Korea,” Berrier said in a report on the global threat assessment before the US Senate Armed Services Committee.

“Kim Jong-un will likely take these steps to try to increase his leverage in any potential negotiations with the US,” Berrier added.

Since the beginning of this year, Pyongyang has carried out 15 missile launches, and it also ended a more than four-year self-imposed moratorium on long-range missile tests by launching an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). ICBM) in March.

Lieutenant General Berrier also warned that North Korea may conduct more weapons tests, including nuclear weapons, according to Yonhap.

“To demonstrate North Korea’s strength and determination, leaders may consider testing additional ballistic and cruise missiles, launching a cyber attack or testing a nuclear device,” he said. other people,” added Mr. Berrier.

Previously, Pyongyang had carried out six nuclear tests, the most recent in September 2017.

Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence, said North Korea continues to produce fissile materials, including uranium, to make nuclear weapons.

“Grandfather Kim Jong-un remains strongly committed to expanding the country’s nuclear arsenal, while continuing to research and develop ballistic missiles,” Haines said.