Tensions are rising on the Korean Peninsula, the statement said, adding that the fabrication of the U.S.-masterminded "resolution on sanctions" against the DPRK at the UN Security Council led to the present situation.

Taking issue with the north's satellite launch and imposing "sanctions" on it are a wanton violation of the sovereignty of an independent state, it held, and added:

After the fabrication of the "resolution on sanctions", the U.S. held combined naval drills with south Korea with the involvement of even a nuclear submarine, thus getting on the nerves of the north.

Past pressures upon the DPRK only aggravated the situation, the statement said, resolutely opposing the U.S.-backed "sanctions" that may lead to a war.