Despot Kim Jong-un has sent Donald Trumpa dire warning through the hermit states propaganda network in the wake of weeks of escalating tension.

Amid an ever-tightening spiral of threat and counter-threat, North Korea warned America to prepare for an outright attack in retaliation for joint military drills between the USA and South Korea.

These drills, held annually, are detested in North Korea where they are seen as preparation for an invasion by Kims Western enemies.

The dictator said via a state-run news agency: The Trump group's declaration of the reckless nuclear war exercises against the DPRK is a reckless behaviour driving the situation into the uncontrollable phase of a nuclear war.

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The Korean People's Army is keeping a high alert, fully ready to contain the enemies

North Korea state media

Pyongyang also reiterated its claim the USA was now in direct threat of a military strike, warning Hawaii, Guam and the American mainland cannot dodge the merciless strike.

The rogue state added it was on high alert and ready to lash out at the slightest provocation.

The propaganda report said: The Korean People's Army is keeping a high alert, fully ready to contain the enemies. It will take resolute steps the moment even a slight sign of the preventive war is spotted.

READ MORE:Will the USA attack North Korea?

This most recent North Korea crisis was sparked by US president Donald Trump, who ignored historic US foreign policy towards North Korea and instead promised fire and fury towards the country if they did not soften their war-hungry rhetoric.

This was immediately undermined by Kim, who promised to attack the US island territory of Guam.

Mr Trumps comments have since been criticised by several Washington heavyweights, including former presidential candidate John McCain.

READ MORE: Does North Korea have nuclear weapons?

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He said the US president should have showed restraint and had instead had his bluff called by Kim.

Mr McCain said: "I take exception to the President's comments because you've got to be sure that you can do what you say you're going to do.

"The great leaders I've seen don't threaten unless they're ready to act and I'm not sure President Trump is ready to act.

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Verge of WW3? North Korea tells USA to prepare for imminent 'uncontrollable nuclear war' - Express.co.uk