North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told the nation that economic problems will increase in 2024 and to prepare for war with the U.S., speaking on the second day of a year-end party meeting, according to state media on Thursday.

North Koreans should wage a “more courageous and resolute struggle despite the ever-increasing challenges and difficulties” in the new year, Kim said in a speech Wednesday on state policy changes for 2024, echoing his remarks on economic hardships made in most major speeches in recent years.