IAEA chief Rafael Grossi indicated that North Korea is actively enriching uranium at two sites, violating UN Security Council resolutions. He provided updates on operations at Kangson and Yongbyon, reflecting the country’s commitment to its nuclear program and calling for compliance with international standards.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi reported on Monday that North Korea is still operating uranium enrichment plants at two sites, highlighting this as a “clear” violation of UN Security Council resolutions. During his statement at the agency’s Board of Governors meeting in Vienna, Grossi referred to the plants in Kangson, near Pyongyang, and Yongbyon, located to the north of the capital. This assessment follows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s reported visit to a nuclear material production base and a nuclear weapons institute in January, indicating North Korea’s commitment to advancing its nuclear capabilities amidst ongoing efforts by Seoul and Washington aimed at achieving the complete denuclearization of the country.
Grossi stated, “There are indications that the uranium enrichment plants at Kangson and Yongbyon continue to operate,” along with validation that the light water reactor at Yongbyon remains active. He noted that observations of added supporting infrastructure near the light water reactor further confirm ongoing operations. Additionally, Grossi mentioned the 5-megawatt nuclear reactor at Yongbyon resumed functioning in mid-October last year, after a shutdown period sufficient for refueling, marking the start of its seventh operational cycle.
The IAEA has recognized strong indicators relating to preparations for a new reprocessing campaign, including the functionality of the steam plant at the Radiochemical Laboratory, which is pivotal in producing plutonium necessary for bomb development. An estimated six kilograms of plutonium is needed to construct a nuclear weapon. Furthermore, Grossi remarked on state media releasing images of Kim inspecting nuclear facilities, asserting that they correspond to the architecture of a centrifuge enrichment facility tied to Yongbyon.
In summary, North Korea’s ongoing operations at its uranium enrichment facilities and advancements in nuclear capabilities raise significant concerns regarding compliance with international agreements. The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely and urges North Korea to adhere to its obligations as outlined by the UN Security Council. The developments suggest a troubling trajectory for regional security as North Korea persists in its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
