SEOUL, South Korea — In an unusual move, North Korea has openly criticized U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio for labeling the nation a “rogue state,” indicating that such “crude and nonsensical remarks” will not promote U.S. interests. This response marks the first direct disapproval from North Korea directed at the Trump administration and underscores its unwillingness to soften its stance toward the U.S. Despite Trump’s expressed desire to engage with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for renewed diplomatic discussions, North Korea seems to be affirming its position.
The North Korean Foreign Ministry emphasized that Rubio’s hostile comments serve as confirmation of an unchanged U.S. policy toward the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). They dismissed Rubio’s assertions as reflective of the misjudged views held by the new administration in Washington. The ministry criticized Rubio’s use of the term “rogue state” during an interview, suggesting that such language further exacerbates tensions. It appears that Rubio’s remarks were made during an appearance on “The Megyn Kelly Show.”
This is not the first instance of U.S. officials categorizing North Korea in this manner, yet the latest statement from Pyongyang indicates that it is not inclined to accept Trump’s overtures immediately. Earlier this year, Trump referred to Kim as “a smart guy” and indicated his willingness to reach out again to the North Korean leader. These comments raised hopes for the possibility of reviving diplomatic efforts, reminiscent of the meetings Trump and Kim held between 2018 and 2019, which ultimately faltered due to disagreements related to sanctions.
Despite Trump’s attempts at reconciliation, North Korea has continuously maintained its aggressive dialogue with the U.S. The country has engaged in weapons testing and the leadership recently highlighted the need to bolster nuclear capabilities in response to perceived threats from “hostile forces,” alluding to the U.S. and South Korea. Kim’s visit to a site producing nuclear materials showcased a determination to enhance North Korea’s military strength.
Experts suggest that Kim Jong Un may now view his position as more secure, bolstered by an expanded nuclear arsenal and strengthened military collaborations with Russia. This shift in power dynamics has emboldened him, especially after past engagements with Trump, which provided his administration global recognition but ultimately ended in failure, resulting in a significant loss of face.
Since the breakdown of negotiations, Kim has ramped up efforts to develop missile technology capable of reaching both the U.S. and South Korea. In a separate statement last November, Kim asserted that previous talks with the U.S. only reaffirmed Washington’s enduring animosity towards the DPRK, leading him to see nuclear development as the sole measure of safeguarding his nation from external threats. Following a pivotal political meeting in December, Kim pledged to implement the “toughest” strategies against the U.S., suggesting a relentless pursuit of military advancement.
