Tensions Rise as North Korea Prepares to Sever Border Roads Amid Drone Controversy

North Korea plans to destroy roads crossing the border with South Korea, amid accusations of aerial provocation involving drones. Both countries exchange verbal volleys, heightening tensions. North Korea gears up militarily, deploying artillery units and expressing readiness for conflict if further drone incidents occur.

North Korea is preparing to destroy roads that cross the militarized border with South Korea, Seoul reported on Monday. The development comes amid escalating tensions following accusations from the North that South Korea dispatched drones over its capital, Pyongyang.

Last Friday, North Korea charged South Korea with deploying drones to disseminate numerous anti-North leaflets over Pyongyang, labeling it a significant political and military provocation that could escalate into armed conflict. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Lee Sung-jun, remained tight-lipped on whether the military or civilians conducted these drone flights.

Kim Yo Jong, sister to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, blamed the South Korean military for the drone incursion, holding the U.S. accountable as well. If repeated drone incidents occur, North Korea has threatened a "horrible disaster," already militarizing the border with eight artillery units on alert.

(With inputs from agencies.)