TOKYO, November 1. /TASS/. The US nuclear war scenario with North Korea has entered its final phase, the Korean Central News Agency quoted a North Korean diplomat as saying on Tuesday.

"All facts clearly demonstrate that the US nuclear war scenario with North Korea has entered the final stage," the diplomat stressed, commenting on the maneuvers of South Korea and the US. The North Korean Foreign Ministry noted that "nowhere in the world are military drills as aggressive as those conducted by the US and its followers."

"The US is the only country in the world whose main goal of the nuclear program is the overthrow of regimes, they should be prepared to pay an equal price in case of an attempt to use force against North Korea," the diplomat continued. He assured that Pyongyang was ready to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, its territorial integrity and the safety of its people.

South Korean and American servicemen began a five-day Vigilant Storm exercise on Monday. It involves some 240 aircraft. The maneuvers are similar to Vigilant Ace, which was halted in 2018 under previous South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who sought dialogue with North Korea.