North Korea’s Kim orders navy to build 10,000-tonne destroyer: State media

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered the construction of a 10,000-tonne destroyer, state media reported, continuing a pattern of military-focused visits ahead of an expected trip by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The order underscores Pyongyang's ongoing naval expansion efforts amid regional tensions. Kim has been making frequent appearances at military installations in recent weeks, signaling heightened focus on defense capabilities. The timing of the announcement, just before Xi's visit, suggests North Korea may be using military developments as part of broader diplomatic messaging to its closest ally.