N. Korean paper defines nuke deterrent as means of aggression

SEOUL, June 9 (Yonhap) -- North Korea on Tuesday described its nuclear weapons
capability as means of both self-protection and "merciless aggression" towards
those violating its sovereignty, the first acknowledgment by the country that it
may use its nuclear weapons other than for defensive measures.
"Our nuclear deterrence capability is a powerful defensive measure to secure the
peace and stability of the Joseon (Korean) peninsula and nearby regions. It will
become a vehicle for merciless attacks on those who even slightly infringe upon
our sovereignty," said Minju Joson, North Korea's Cabinet newspaper, through a
commentary.
North Korea has previously described its nuclear weapons program as means of
either maintaining peace in the region or strengthening its self-protective
power. It was the first time that the North has termed the program a vehicle for
possible future attacks.
The paper also said that the political tension between North Korea and regional
powers only goes to retroactively justify the legitimacy of its nuclear deterrent
development.
Meanwhile, Rodong Sinmun, a paper published by the country's Workers' Party, also
suggested to its "enemies" that North Korea considers a good offense as its
ultimate defensive scheme.
"Our self-protective measure is to relentlessly crush invaders by striking them
preemptively," the paper said.
odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)