North Korea enriches uranium for multiple nuclear bombs

North Korea has reportedly enriched sufficient uranium to construct a 'double-digit' number of nuclear bombs, according to a briefing by Seoul's National Intelligence Service. This assessment follows a rare public display of a weapons-grade uranium production facility by Kim Jong Un, who aims to significantly expand the country's nuclear arsenal. The South Korean agency estimates that North Korea possesses around 70 kilograms of plutonium and a substantial amount of weapons-grade uranium, indicating a serious commitment to enhancing its military capabilities. The uranium enrichment facility, likely located in Kangson near Pyongyang, is one of two known sites associated with North Korea's uranium enrichment efforts, alongside the Yongbyon nuclear complex. Analysts suggest that there may be additional undisclosed sites dedicated to uranium enrichment. Following Kim's visit to the facility, North Korea conducted missile tests, showcasing its advancements in weaponry, including missiles designed for precision strikes against South Korean targets. The missile tests, which occurred shortly after the uranium facility visit, involved two new missile types, one capable of carrying large conventional warheads and another classified as a 'strategic' cruise missile, hinting at its potential for nuclear delivery. This series of events appears to be a strategic move by North Korea to assert its military strength amid escalating tensions with the United States and South Korea. Speculation exists that North Korea may conduct a nuclear test to increase pressure on Washington, particularly ahead of the U.S. presidential election. However, the South Korean intelligence agency believes that North Korea might delay such a test, opting instead to pursue other military demonstrations first, such as long-range missile launches or military reconnaissance satellite deployments.