Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United Nations has expressed serious concern over North Korea’s continued militarisation after the country’s announcement of a new five-year military development plan, set for 2026. This plan reportedly violates multiple Security Council resolutions, according to Under Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo, who addressed the Security Council.
DiCarlo noted that North Korea is focused on developing “new secret arsenals” and capabilities, which challenges global nuclear disarmament efforts, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. She stressed the need for North Korea to fully comply with its international obligations and urged the global community to uphold relevant Security Council sanctions.
According to her statement, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing its nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities as part of the five-year plan. Throughout 2025 and early 2026, the country has conducted multiple ballistic missile launches, involving short-range projectiles, multiple launch rocket systems, strategic cruise missiles, and anti-ship missiles.
Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), warned of a “very serious increase” in North Korea’s production capacity of fissile material at its Yongbyon nuclear site, further intensifying concerns over nuclear risk.
Additionally, James Byrne, CEO of the Open Source Centre, presented new evidence to the Security Council suggesting some member states may be violating sanctions by allowing vessels to carry prohibited cargo to North Korea, establishing a “clear pattern of activity” in contravention of resolutions 2371 (2017) and others.