North Korea has criticized US arms supplies to Taiwan, arguing that Washington’s continued military support for the island is exacerbating tensions and threatening stability in East Asia.
The Korean Central News Agency said the United States was attempting to portray arms sales to Taiwan as measures aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Pyongyang, however, argued that such moves increase the risk of escalation in the region.
The agency also criticized the arrival of a new batch of US-made fighter jets in Taiwan, describing the delivery as an example of what Washington presents as a contribution to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Pyongyang rejected US plans to continue exporting weapons to Taipei, arguing that American support for forces advocating Taiwan’s independence runs counter to the “One China” principle.
North Korea reiterated that the Taiwan issue is an internal Chinese matter and that foreign powers have no right to intervene, warning that continued outside involvement could further increase regional tensions.
The criticism came after the first two of 66 new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets arrived in Taiwan on October 2. The aircraft are part of a deal approved by the United States in 2019 and valued at around $8 billion.
In December 2025, Washington approved another $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, which was the largest US arms deal with the island at the time.
The developments come amid continued tensions between China and Taiwan, with Beijing maintaining its opposition to any moves toward Taiwanese independence, while the United States continues to support Taiwan’s defense capabilities.
