North Korea Issues First Direct Criticism of Trump Administration

North Korea has issued its first direct criticism of the second Trump administration, denouncing Secretary of State Marco Rubio for labeling it a “rogue state” and warning that such remarks do not serve American interests.

Why It Matters

North Korea’s statement signals a continuation of its hard-line stance toward the U.S., even as President Donald Trump has expressed interest in reviving diplomatic engagement. The response suggests Pyongyang remains skeptical of Washington’s intentions and is willing to push back forcefully against any rhetoric it deems hostile.

What to Know

The North Korean Foreign Ministry’s statement, published through state-controlled media, blasted Rubio’s comments as “coarse and nonsensical” and accused the U.S. of maintaining a long-standing “hostile policy” toward North Korea. The ministry argued that such remarks violate international norms of sovereignty and non-interference.

“The hostile words and deeds of the person who is in charge of the U.S. foreign policy served as an occasion of confirming once again the U.S. hostile policy toward the DPRK which remains unchanged,” the statement read, according to The Associated Press.

Rubio made his remarks during a January 30 appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, where he described North Korea and Iran as “rogue states” that pose major challenges to U.S. foreign policy.

While past U.S. officials have used similar language, North Korea’s sharp reaction suggests it is wary of the Trump administration’s approach. In the past, Pyongyang has responded to perceived slights with military provocations, including missile tests and nuclear development activities.

Experts believe North Korea’s statement serves both as a warning to Washington and as a strategic move to shape future diplomatic talks.

What People Are Saying

Lim Eul-chul, professor of North Korean studies at Kyungnam University in Seoul, told The Korea Herald: “[North Korea’s statement] carries both direct and indirect messages for President Trump.

“Notably, it could serve as a warning that unless figures like Secretary of State Rubio halt their hostile rhetoric and actions, President Trump should not expect a summit with Chairman Kim Jong Un.”

South Korean Unification Ministry spokesperson Koo Byoung-sam said, according to Radio Free Asia: “To be clear, the one that undermines international rules and threatens the peace of the international community is North Korea itself.

“South Korea, the U.S., and the international community share the goal of completely denuclearizing North Korea.”

What’s Next

North Korea has yet to directly address Trump’s recent comments about Kim Jong Un, in which he called the North Korean leader “a smart guy” and indicated a willingness to reach out. However, Pyongyang has continued its aggressive rhetoric toward the U.S., most recently condemning American arms sales to South Korea and pledging to expand its nuclear capabilities.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.