Key Takeaways:

• North Korea condemns the docking of the USS Alexandria in Busan as a “grave security threat.”
• Pyongyang vows to respond militarily to what it perceives as frequent US provocations.
• The US submarine is part of the Pacific Fleet, armed with Tomahawk missiles, raising concerns about regional stability.

North Korea's Ministry of Defence has issued a stern warning following the arrival of a US Navy nuclear submarine at a South Korean port, labeling it a "hostile military act" that escalates tensions on the Korean Peninsula. This statement, reported by the state-run Le Monde, highlights concerns over the permanent military presence of US assets in the region, a sentiment echoed in similar reports from Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia.

The USS Alexandria docked in Busan on February 10, primarily for supplies and crew rest, as part of ongoing US-South Korea naval cooperation. In response, North Korea characterized this presence as a "clear expression of the US invariable hysteria for confrontation." The statement from North Korea’s defence ministry warned that such actions could potentially lead to an "acute military confrontation" and an actual armed conflict if not addressed.

The North Korean authorities reiterated their commitment to enhancing their military capabilities in the face of what they perceive as ongoing provocations. The military spokesperson stated that the country's armed forces are "strictly watching" the increased deployment of US strategic assets on the Korean Peninsula and are "ready to use any means to defend the security and interests of the state."

Historically, the tensions between North Korea and the United States have ebbed and flowed, significantly impacted by diplomatic efforts among leaders. Notably, former US President Donald Trump had engaged in unprecedented discussions with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Recent comments from Trump indicated a willingness to reach out to Kim again, despite the ongoing sanctions and recent military escalations.

These developments come at a time when North Korea remains largely isolated due to international sanctions and diplomatic barriers. The country recently reaffirmed its stance on the continuation of its nuclear program, emphasizing its importance for national security amidst rising regional tensions.

North Korea's increasingly strong rhetoric against US military activities is part of its broader strategy to highlight perceived external threats, ultimately seeking to bolster its own defense posture. As the situation evolves, the international community remains watchful of the implications for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

For more details, visit the sources: Le Monde, Al Jazeera, and Channel News Asia.