El País: Kim Jong Un strengthens his power and affirms the centrality of nuclear deterrence
A report highlights Kim Jong Un's re-election as General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, solidifying his absolute authority and the role of nuclear deterrence in North Korea's defense strategy.
A report by the Spanish newspaper El País discusses the recent ninth congress of the Workers' Party of Korea, where Kim Jong Un was re-elected as General Secretary, marking a significant consolidation of his power. The congress reaffirmed loyalty to Kim as the driving force behind enhancing the country's military capabilities, emphasizing that its nuclear program continues to be the strategic cornerstone of defense and state sovereignty amid external threats.
The report outlines that the conference conveyed clear political messages signaling a commitment to a military-first approach and the development of deterrent capabilities to counter any aggression. The party praised the qualitative leap achieved by the armed forces under Kim's leadership, noting the transformation of the military into an elite force armed with advanced nuclear weapons, which the regime views as essential for national security and a stable future in an increasingly tense regional landscape.
Domestically, the congress revealed signs of change within the ruling elite's structure, featuring the exclusion of prominent historical figures who had previously held significant roles within the party. This suggests potential shifts in political dynamics and a consolidation of power within Kim's inner circle, as he continues to navigate the complexities of governance amid ongoing economic challenges and international isolation.