January 23, 2026
Local
Local
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 23 — Two foreign nationals have become the first individuals in Malaysia to be charged in court for littering under the newly enforced anti-littering law, according to a report by The Star.
SEOUL, Feb 9 — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has condemned the military alliance between the United States, Japan, and South Korea, accusing them of escalating regional tensions. He vowed to strengthen North Korea’s nuclear forces as a countermeasure, state media KCNA reported today.
Kim criticized US deployments of nuclear strategic assets, joint military drills, and growing ties with Japan and South Korea, saying they were creating a military imbalance and threatening security in the region.
“The DPRK does not seek unnecessary tensions but will take sustained countermeasures to ensure military balance,” Kim stated during a visit to North Korea’s defense ministry to mark the founding of its army.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concerns over North Korea’s nuclear program during a meeting on Friday, with Trump stating he would maintain relations with Pyongyang.
During his visit, Kim reaffirmed his commitment to further nuclear development, emphasizing North Korea’s “unshakable policy” on the matter.
Regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine, Kim declared unwavering support for Moscow, stating that North Korea stands with Russia in defending its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, in line with their strategic partnership treaty.
Last month, South Korea accused North Korea of sending over 11,000 troops to Russia to support its war efforts, with reports suggesting additional deployments were being prepared.
In a separate statement, KCNA again denounced South Korea’s joint military activities with the US, warning that aggressive actions would lead to “undesired consequences.” — Reuters
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un condemned military cooperation between the United States, Japan, and South Korea for escalating regional tensions and pledged countermeasures, including advancing nuclear forces. — Reuters file pic
