North Korea issued a strong warning on May 26, 2025, claiming that the United States’ expanding space-based missile defense system could lead to a “nuclear war scenario.” The statement, released through state media, condemned U.S. efforts to strengthen its space military capabilities, calling them a direct threat to global security.
A spokesperson for North Korea’s Foreign Ministry accused Washington of pursuing space militarization that, in Pyongyang’s view, undermines strategic balance and provokes confrontation.
“The U.S. space shield plan is a scheme to launch a nuclear war,” the statement read.
U.S. Space Defense Developments
The warning follows recent announcements from U.S. defense officials about upgrading missile tracking and interception systems using satellite networks and space-based radar platforms. These initiatives are part of a broader U.S. strategy to counter missile threats from countries including North Korea, China, and Iran.
Washington has stated that the space shield is defensive in nature and aimed at protecting the U.S. and its allies from missile attacks, especially those involving hypersonic weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
North Korea’s Response
North Korea claims the U.S. efforts are offensive in nature and could lead to a new arms race in space. The foreign ministry said that the DPRK will “take necessary measures” to defend its national security and would not ignore what it sees as attempts to establish military superiority in space.
Pyongyang did not specify what actions it might take but hinted at developing its own anti-satellite and strategic space capabilities.
Regional Tensions and Military Posturing
The statement adds to growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula, where both North and South Korea have expanded their weapons testing programs. North Korea has conducted multiple missile launches in recent months, while the U.S. and South Korea have intensified joint military exercises.
China and Russia have also criticized the U.S. space defense initiative, warning it could escalate global insecurity and destabilize arms control agreements.
Ongoing Monitoring
The U.S. has not officially responded to North Korea’s latest statement. Analysts say Washington is likely to continue with its defense plans while closely monitoring North Korea’s next moves.
Security experts warn that the rhetoric signals a hardening of North Korea’s strategic position, and further developments in space or missile technologies from Pyongyang could follow.
Source; Reuters
