Why does North Korea want nuclear weapons? This seemingly basic question gets at the heart of one of the most divisive and important North Korea-related issues facing American foreign policy analysts, government officials, and military commanders today.

Some believe North Korea’s nuclear program is primarily meant to preserve the Kim family regime and deter a U.S attack on the small mountainous nation. So, the argument goes, negotiations and engagement are permissible as North Korea’s aims are defensive in nature.