The policies pursued by the United States undermine the international nuclear non-proliferation system and increase the risks of a new arms race, according to a statement.

Operativ Media reports that this was stated in a memorandum by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The document was published by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The memorandum claims that US activities aimed at both the vertical and horizontal proliferation of nuclear weapons weaken the foundations of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.

The DPRK Foreign Ministry cited the US expansion and modernization of its own nuclear arsenal as an example of "vertical proliferation." In this context, the ministry pointed to the development of the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile, B-21 strategic bombers, Columbia-class submarines, and work on new modifications of the B61 nuclear gravity bomb.

The document also drew attention to US plans to develop the "Golden Dome" missile defense system.

Regarding "horizontal proliferation," the DPRK Foreign Ministry accused the US of transferring nuclear technologies to its allies, deploying nuclear capabilities outside its borders, and developing extended deterrence mechanisms with partners in Europe and Asia.

In this context, cooperation with NATO, AUKUS, as well as South Korea and Japan, was cited as an example.

The DPRK Foreign Ministry stated that Pyongyang's future policy will be determined based on the need to protect national interests and regional security.

The memorandum noted that the steps to be taken by the DPRK as a responsible nuclear-armed state will be determined in light of the current situation regarding the US strengthening of its nuclear potential and nuclear proliferation.