WASHINGTON—Amid recent disclosures of a uranium enrichment facility by North Korea, a State Department spokesperson on Friday reiterated the United States' position that "complete" denuclearization remains the "only viable path" toward lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula. The statement came as North Korea escalates its nuclear capabilities ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential election.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the U.S. official renewed calls for Pyongyang to engage in "constructive" dialogue and emphasized America's unwavering security commitments to both South Korea and Japan. This statement follows reports from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) about Kim Jong-un's visit to a nuclear site where he urged an increase in uranium enrichment to expand North Korea's nuclear arsenal. The spokesperson highlighted that North Korea's nuclear advancements undermine the global non-proliferation regime, with the U.S. urging immediate compliance with U.N. Security Council resolutions.

The tension escalates as the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) continues to threaten regional and global security, prompting the U.S. to bolster its defense alliances in the region. White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby, in an online press briefing, disclosed that the U.S. has increased intelligence and surveillance efforts in response to North Korea's activities. Kirby also noted the administration's readiness to engage with Pyongyang without preconditions to discuss denuclearization.

Further, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, in a separate briefing, addressed a new video showcasing North Korea's nuclear capabilities, asserting that it does not represent a new threat but underscores the persistent challenge posed by North Korea's nuclear ambitions. This comes alongside reports of North Korea preparing for more provocations as the U.S. election nears, seeking to increase its leverage.