North Korea is developing 16 ballistic missile bases despite talks of denuclearization, the New York Times reported Monday.
The Times released satellite images that showed improvements made to several missile sites. Officials said the North Koreans are still making nuclear materials and weapons at these bases hidden in the mountains, The Times reported.
The revelation appears to undermine North Korea’s claims that it is working towards denuclearization and dismantling one of its weapons sites.
“President Trump has made clear that should Chairman Kim follow through on his commitments, including complete denuclearization and the elimination of ballistic missile programs, a much brighter future lies ahead for North Korea and its people,” an official from the State Department told the New York Times.
Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Thursday scrapped a planned trip to North Korea to work on negotiations, though the White House claims it was a scheduling issue.
President Trump has remained optimistic about progress on North Korea, telling reporters at a press conference Wednesday that the U.S. is in “no rush.” He stressed that sanctions will remain in place until the North Koreans follow through.
• Carlo Muñoz contributed to this story.
• Gabriella Muñoz can be reached at gmunoz@washingtontimes.com.
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