Seoul: North Korea on Tuesday denounced the recent arrival of a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine in South Korea, accusing Washington of ignoring Pyongyang's security concerns and warning that it is ready to use any means to defend its national security.
According to Yonhap News Agency, North Korea's defense ministry made the remarks a day after USS Alexandria, a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, arrived at Busan naval base, approximately 320 kilometers southeast of Seoul, to replenish supplies and rest for crew members.
In a statement, a spokesperson at the North's defense ministry described the submarine's arrival as a clear expression of the U.S.' "invariable hysteria for confrontation" with North Korea and an "undeniable threat" to its security environment.
The spokesperson stated that the U.S. is openly ignoring North Korea's security concerns, expressing "grave concerns" and warning the U.S. to stop provocations that stir up instability.
The statement emphasized that North Korea's armed forces are closely monitoring the frequent appearance of U.S. strategic means on the Korean Peninsula and are prepared to use any means to defend the security and interests of the state and regional peace.
The spokesperson also mentioned that the country's armed forces will take actions to deter factors threatening the regional security environment and will not hesitate to exercise the legitimate right to punish the provokers.