Kim Jong Un Tests New Sniper Rifle Amid Military Training and Political Shifts
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un test-fired a new sniper rifle during a visit to special forces, emphasizing their training’s role in enhancing combat readiness. His inspection coincided with President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment in South Korea, indicating potential shifts in inter-Korean relations. Kim expressed satisfaction with the rifle’s performance, amidst discussions of upcoming elections and international diplomacy.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly tested a newly developed sniper rifle while visiting his troops, according to state media from Saturday. During this inspection, he highlighted the importance of special forces training, stating that it enhances the “actual war capability for guaranteeing victory.” These units have purportedly been deployed to Russia, supporting Moscow’s efforts in the war against Ukraine, as suggested by South Korea’s intelligence agency.
During Kim’s visit to the special operations unit, he remarked on how their intensive training significantly contributes to their combat readiness and patriotism. State media, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), released photographs showing Kim examining the scope of the sniper rifle and actively participating in military drills alongside soldiers adorned in camouflage.
Kim supervised various firing drills, including those for automatic rifles and snipers. After personally test-firing the new sniper rifle, he expressed “great satisfaction over the performance and power of the sniper rifle developed in our own way,” as reported by KCNA. This event coincided with significant political changes in South Korea, where President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached for his controversial declaration of martial law. This situation has triggered upcoming elections.
Yoon’s administration had justified the martial law as a means to eliminate perceived threats from North Korea. The KCNA notably reported about Yoon’s impeachment for the first time, indicating awareness of international developments. Additionally, South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is being perceived as a leading candidate in the ensuing elections, advocating for a more conciliatory stance towards North Korea. Recent communications from former US President Donald Trump indicated ongoing dialogue with Kim, implying a potential future engagement between North Korea and the United States.
In summary, Kim Jong Un’s recent activity emphasizes the developments within North Korea’s military capabilities, particularly through the use of a newly developed sniper rifle. The ongoing geopolitical situation, including Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment and the potential electoral shift in South Korea, highlights the complexities of inter-Korean relations and external diplomatic opportunities with figures like Donald Trump. As North Korea continues to assert its military strength, the region remains on alert regarding its implications for regional stability.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
