US White House Expresses Concern Over North Korea, China, and Russia's Increasing Nuclear Weapons Stockpiles

Jake Sullivan, U.S. White House National Security Advisor, Remarks
"Listening to Demands" on the Need to Expand U.S. Nuclear Weapons

Jake Sullivan, the U.S. National Security Advisor at the White House, expressed concerns about nuclear cooperation among North Korea, China, and Russia, stating, "We are worried about the increase in nuclear weapons in countries like China, Russia, and North Korea."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

In an interview on the 9th (local time) with U.S. CBS and ABC broadcasts, Sullivan was asked if there was evidence of nuclear technology sharing between North Korea, China, Russia, and Iran. He responded, "What I can say is that we are concerned about cooperation among the countries we just mentioned."

He added, "I cannot speak about intelligence matters, especially very sensitive information related to nuclear capabilities," but said, "This is an area we are focusing on, and we will discuss with our allies and partner countries the best ways to ensure a safe and reliable U.S. nuclear deterrent."

Regarding earlier remarks by U.S. officials that if North Korea, China, and Russia do not cooperate to reduce nuclear threats, the U.S. might have to increase its nuclear arsenal, Sullivan said, "No decision has been made yet," explaining, "A decision will need to be made within months or years." He further added that the possibility of expanding nuclear weapons would be "at least put on the (discussion) table to listen to the demands."

On arms control negotiations with China, Sullivan said, "The talks are now in the early stages," and added, "We will continue on the path of arms control negotiations with China while maintaining a reliable nuclear deterrent so that the U.S. and its allies can remain safe."

He also confirmed that Ukraine has used U.S. weapons to attack Russian territory.

Regarding the recent incident where Israel rescued hostages kidnapped by the Palestinian armed group Hamas, resulting in many Palestinian casualties, Sullivan said, "We are looking into this and are aware that civilians have died," emphasizing that a ceasefire agreement must be reached quickly.