Why North Korea’s Kim is doubling down on nuclear might as Xi visit looms

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has recently showcased nuclear-processing capabilities, coinciding with an upcoming state visit from Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This move is reportedly driven by concerns over South Korea's nuclear submarine discussions with Washington and increased trilateral talks between the United States, Japan, and South Korea. Analysts suggest these developments have prompted Kim to reinforce North Korea's position as a nuclear-armed state. Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit North Korea on Monday and Tuesday at Kim's invitation, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency.