The U.S. has expressed concern over North Korea’s operation of a new light water reactor at its nuclear complex, after the global agency regulating nuclear development reported increased activity at the facility.

Experts have assessed that the reactor could help Pyongyang produce weapons-grade plutonium, which is considered desirable for compact warheads in weapons like its tactical nuclear missiles.

The U.S. mission to international organizations in Vienna said on social media on Saturday that Pyongyang’s commissioning of the plant “raises serious concerns, including safety,” and backed stronger monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).  

“Without #IAEA monitoring & assistance, significant