North Korea strongly criticized Marco Rubio for labeling the country a “rogue state” on Monday. The North dismissed the US senator’s comments as “nonsense.”

First Public Condemnation of Trump Administration

This was North Korea’s first public response to the incoming Trump administration. A spokesperson for the country’s foreign ministry stated, “We will never tolerate any provocation from the US... but will take tough counteraction corresponding to it as usual,” according to KCNA, the state news agency.

Trump's Offer to Engage with Kim

The remarks came after US President Donald Trump, who took office last month, expressed his willingness to “reach out” to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump had previously met with Kim during his first term, which set the stage for further engagement.

Rubio Labels North Korea as a “Rogue State”

In a recent radio interview, Rubio referred to North Korea and Iran as “rogue states,” stressing that these are nations “you have to deal with” when making foreign policy decisions.

North Korea Responds Strongly

In response, the North Korean foreign ministry spokesperson dismissed the US Secretary of State’s remarks as “nonsense.” The spokesperson further added, “The Foreign Ministry of the DPRK sees the US State Secretary’s hostile remarks as a serious political provocation.”

Ongoing Tension

North Korea remains diplomatically isolated and faces heavy sanctions. Additionally, its nuclear weapons program continues to be a significant point of contention between the United States and North Korea.

Trump’s Previous Engagement with Kim

Trump, who had a series of meetings with Kim during his first term, mentioned in January that he would reach out to the North Korean leader again, calling him a “smart guy.” Despite this, a summit between the two in Hanoi in 2019 collapsed due to disagreements over sanctions relief and what North Korea was willing to give up.

North Korea's Nuclear Program

Despite Trump’s diplomatic outreach, North Korea stated last week that it would continue its nuclear program “indefinitely,” signaling that tensions are unlikely to ease in the near future.