North Korea has constructed a new uranium enrichment facility, as revealed by satellite images and a report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Professor Remco Breuker of Leiden University, an expert in Korean studies, described it as 'a larger, new, and previously undiscovered uranium enrichment facility within North Korea's nuclear complex.'
In a statement released on Monday, IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi confirmed that the agency is 'monitoring the construction of a new building in Yongbyon, which has dimensions and features similar to the enrichment plant in Kangson.'
Breuker questioned the purpose of the new facility, noting that North Korea already possesses sufficient defensive capabilities, including an estimated 'minimum of sixty operational nuclear weapons.' He speculated whether the facility could serve offensive purposes or even the illicit trade of nuclear materials.
Breuker also highlighted North Korea's reliance on foreign networks for technology and components, citing examples such as a drone recovered in South Korea that contained parts from multiple countries, including the United States. Despite international efforts toward denuclearization, Breuker emphasized that this goal remains unrealistic.
