North Korea has, for the first time, revealed images of a uranium enrichment facility that produces material for its nuclear weapons. The photographs show leader Kim Jong Un, who has previously pledged to dramatically expand the nation’s nuclear arsenal, inspecting the facility. According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim called for increased uranium production at the site, which is crucial for manufacturing nuclear warheads.

The images depict Kim walking past rows of centrifuges, engaging with military officials. The timing of the visit is unclear, and it is not confirmed whether the facility is part of the Yongbyon nuclear complex, North Korea’s main producer of fissile material. The release of these photographs comes amid rising tensions on the Korean peninsula.

Experts suggest the disclosure could be intended as a message to the upcoming U.S. presidential election, signaling that denuclearizing North Korea is unrealistic. It may also be an attempt to force international recognition of North Korea as a nuclear state.

South Korea’s government has condemned the North’s actions and warned of a strong response to any nuclear provocations, emphasizing its defense alliance with the U.S. Estimates suggest North Korea possesses around 50 nuclear weapons, with the capacity to produce dozens more.