North Korea's Kim Jong Un sacks military chief amid escalating tensions, asks army to be ready for war

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Supreme Leader of North Korea leader Kim Jong Un has replaced a high-ranking military official and ordered intensified military training and weapon production, according to reports from the country's state media KCNA. The move comes amidst escalating tensions and as South Korea and the United States prepare for joint military drills.

Kim Jong Un's latest move involves the dismissal of General Pak Su Il, the Chief of the General Staff of North Korea, who had been in the position for about seven months. The decision to remove Gen. Pak was announced during a Central Military Commission meeting, where plans to counter potential threats were discussed. Gen. Pak's replacement is General Ri Yong Gil, a seasoned military figure who previously served as the nation's defense minister and supreme commander of its conventional forces.

Kim Jong Un's directive to intensify military training and weapons production was issued «in an offensive way,» as the North Korean leader called for comprehensive war preparations. State media images depicted Kim engaged in discussions with uniformed top generals, pointing at maps and discussing «major military actions» against South Korea. This move follows Kim's recent inspection of key arms factories, further indicating North Korea's focus on bolstering its military capabilities.

The timing of Kim Jong Un's military reshuffle and heightened war preparations coincides with upcoming joint military drills between South Korea and the United States. North Korea has historically viewed these exercises as rehearsals for an invasion and has warned of potential retaliation. The situation raises concerns about regional