Nuclear disarmament not on table for US talks: North Korea

Pyongyang: North Korea made it clear that its nuclear weapons are not a "bargaining chip" but are meant for actual use to defend its security and sovereignty.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Pyongyang rejected recent remarks from NATO and EU officials who have refused to recognize North Korea as a nuclear-armed state.

The agency also criticized calls for the complete and verifiable dismantling of North Koreas nuclear program, labeling such demands as "irrational."

North Korea reaffirmed its position that nuclear disarmament will not be part of any negotiations with the United States if talks between the two sides resume.

KCNA further stressed that North Koreas nuclear capabilities are not negotiable, but rather an essential part of its defense strategy to protect its sovereignty and ensure safety of its people from any threats.