WASHINGTON (February 26, 2026) – On Wednesday, North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un, promised to strengthen his country’s nuclear weapons program. With North Korea positioning itself as a nuclear state, despite constant warnings not to, this move could threaten regional security and complicate diplomatic efforts with the U.S. This announcement comes after last week’s footage of Kim Jong Un controlling a 600mm multiple rocket launcher–a device North Korea has prided as “nuclear capable." Four months earlier, the country held another parade showcasing its most powerful device: the intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
Experts at George Washington University are available for further analysis on these developments. To schedule an interview, please contact Nadia Payne at nadia [dot] payne
gwu [dot] edu (nadia[dot]payne[at]gwu[dot]edu) or GW media at gwmediagwu [dot] edu (gwmedia[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Professor Sharon Squassoni researches, writes, and teaches about foreign and national security policies related to the risks posed by nuclear weapons and nuclear energy. Her current research focuses on North Korea, the risks of new nuclear energy, and the intersection of climate change and national security. Sharon also sits on the boards of key organizations in the field, including the Center for Arms Control & Nonproliferation, the Wisconsin Project on Arms Control, the PIR Center, and, previously, the Science & Security Board of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.
Professor Yonho Kim directes the policy programs at the Institute for Korean Studies: North Korea Economic Forum, North Korea Certificate Program, and Korea Policy Forum. He specializes in North Korea’s mobile telecommunications and U.S. policy towards North Korea. His research findings were covered by various media outlets, including the Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, Yonhap News, and Libération.
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