North Korea: Long-range missile testing ‘in last stage’

North Korea’s leader said Sunday that his nation is almost ready to test-launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

“Research and development of cutting edge arms equipment is actively progressing and ICBM rocket test launch preparation is in its last stage,” Kim Jong Un said during New Year’s Day speech, according to Reuters.

The news service noted that the nuclear-capable nation tested ballistic missiles at a record rate last year, adding, however, that some experts have said it is years way from developing a long-range weapon capable of reaching the U.S.

Kim also threatened to increase North Korea’s military capabilities if the U.S. does not end war games with South Korea, The Associated Press reported.

{mosads}”The political and military position of socialism should be further cemented as an invincible fortress,” Kim said, according the AP, which cited an outline of the speech carried by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency. “We should resolutely smash the enemies’ despicable and vicious moves to dampen the pure and ardent desire of the people for the party and estrange the people from it.”

South Korea’s government condemned Kim’s comments for “threatening the South.”

“It is deeply regrettable that the North continues to shift the responsibility of the strained inter-Korean relations to the South, and conduct political maneuver, including the slander and criticism of our Head of State and intervening in our internal issues,” South Korea’s Unification Ministry said in a statement. “We urge the North to immediately suspend such behavior.”

The ministry added that the South Korean government and the international community “are firm on the position that North Korea’s nuclear development cannot be tolerated.”

“We once again warn that the North will face tougher sanctions and pressure if it continues to focus on its nuclear development,” it added.