The United States has reiterated its concerns over North Korea’s nuclear activities during the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors meeting in Vienna. Speaking on September 9, 2025, Howard Solomon, Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim, addressed the ongoing issue under Agenda Item 6a regarding nuclear verification and the application of safeguards in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
Solomon expressed appreciation for the work done by the IAEA Director General and Secretariat to monitor developments related to North Korea’s nuclear program. He emphasized U.S. support for the agency’s efforts to maintain readiness for monitoring and verification in North Korea if required.
“We remain concerned by the DPRK’s ongoing nuclear activities, including – as the Director General described in his most recent report to the Board and General Conference – expanded operation of uranium enrichment facilities at Kangson and Yongbyon, the possible construction of an additional uranium enrichment facility at Yongbyon, indications consistent with a reprocessing campaign during the reporting period, and persistent irresponsible and bellicose rhetoric,” Solomon stated.
He noted that North Korea continues to develop weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs in violation of several UN Security Council resolutions. According to Solomon, these actions threaten not only the United States but also its allies and regional security. The United States remains engaged with South Korea, Japan, and other partners to deter further aggression from North Korea.
“And we remain committed to the complete denuclearization of North Korea,” Solomon concluded.