Again, more important statistics that possibly need to be considered in comment. China, South Korea, Japan and Republic of China (Taiwan) share one common characteristic, all have a very significant trade surplus with the United States of America. (Arguably, much of it has been created by currency manipulation, export dumping, protective trade restriction and, by some, questionable intellectual property infringement, but nevertheless, they share the abovementioned trait.) Barring an extreme error in judgment, none of these nations will risk losing that economic advantage. Undoubtedly, "accommodation" between them is inevitable, rather than a regional war and loss of the economic advantage identified. Best approach for the US is to provide adequate defensive "national measures", and allow the events to unfold.
1
So what happened to the anti missile system we gave and set up for South Korea? North Korea launches a missile South Korea shoots it down.It is rocket science, and we have it!
You do not want to read the test results of these systems where 10% successive is cheered, but THAAT has less to do with Korea that with possible PRC launches in future possible conflicts as early warning as the Chinese know and opposes. It is an assault on MAD that has save the world a few times. Pres. Moon knows that but needs to play to America’s favor to win time for reasonable minds to hopefully reappear; none currently lurking about in the west.
1
As much as we all hate to confront the NK reality, it's time to plan for a definitive, pre-emptive military strike in 30 days. China will simply not help, and S. Korea has grown complacent, thinking someone else will solve the problem. They now need to wake up, evacuate Seoul and plan for a US invasion. Seoul will be the sacrifice since it will be demolished, but the would will be finally liberated from NK's soon to be nuclear threat.
1
China and North Korea are parties to a mutual defense treaty. If you strike North Korea preemptively, you will start a shooting war with China. Moreover, a preemptive strike will not necessary remove North Korea's nuclear capabilities. USFK is not positioned as an invasion force and conservative estimates, once additional forces arrive from Japan, is a minimum of 100,000 US forces killed in order to neutralize KPA forces along the DMZ. In the meantime, 3 days of constant artillery barrages, as well as chemical and biological strikes from KPA forces, would kill no less than 3 million people in Seoul. Are you going to sign off on that by striking preemptively? Are you going to risk millions of lives? Are you going to risk nuclear war with China? Are you going to evacuate 10 million people? Where are you going to put them? These are not easy answers. The North Koreans know this and that's why they will continue to perfect both their ICBM technology and nuclear weaponization. They have all the cards. South Korea is not complacent in this. The safety and security of Seoul, one of the world's most populated cities, is the first thing on the ROK's agenda and we should not blame them for it.
3
What Trump has said and tweeted about North Korea made the situation worse. North Korea's target is not U.S. but Trump because such escalation did not happen before Trump's inauguration. South Korea leader and/or Japan leader should suggest that to control Trump's comment is a best way to prevent such escalation.
1
I am waiting for President Trump to blame all of this on his four predecessors who failed to stop North Korea in its nuclear arms development. Now, he is left with the problem. Which has grown far more serious in the past few months.
Thank goodness we have Trump, because he always said "Only I can fix it".
Thank goodness we have Trump, because he always said "Only I can fix it".
3
Prelude to War?
I get the distinct feeling that what's happening in the world
is kind of like what happened before World Wars One and Two.
Terrorists. Rogue regimes. Thugs. Madmen.
Hubris all around.
Everybody saw war coming and no one could stop it.
Just so you know:
- Twenty miles south of me sits Fort Bragg.
- Fifteen miles to the north is a commercial nuclear power plant.
I have no illusions about this area surviving even a "limited" nuclear war.
It would be radioactive for thousands of years.
I get the distinct feeling that what's happening in the world
is kind of like what happened before World Wars One and Two.
Terrorists. Rogue regimes. Thugs. Madmen.
Hubris all around.
Everybody saw war coming and no one could stop it.
Just so you know:
- Twenty miles south of me sits Fort Bragg.
- Fifteen miles to the north is a commercial nuclear power plant.
I have no illusions about this area surviving even a "limited" nuclear war.
It would be radioactive for thousands of years.
1
Who took this picture ? For the last six months we had to hear about Trump enviable impeach that didn't happen , then the rigged Russian election farsce, now this. You do know China and Russia are nuclear powers .
1
I can only see one way to resolve this, and that is by fostering closer ties between South Korea and China. If the diplomatic and trade value of a South Korean relationship outstrips that of a North Korean one, there is little doubt that Beijing will have no compunctions about crippling the North Korean regime. Doing this shouldn't be too hard, given that South Korea has an economy roughly 40 times the size of its northern neighbor. South Korea may not be enamored of the idea, nor would our military establishment, but if there is to be any hope of rapprochement between the two Koreas and nuclear disarmament, it must travel through China.
1
NATO should offer China and Russia comparable financial compensation in exchange for both agreeing to cease importing oil to North Korea
2
As usual, US hypocrisy is amazing. Now it is complaining that China is not fixing a problem created by the US for the last fifty years . All those yearly war games to intimidate and threaten N. Korea had only one answer, a defensive and cheap response i.e. a nuclear weapon. Now in order to prevent further escalation they should sign a Non Aggression Pact. And stop fooling around.
Your information is faulty in that the DPRK (North Korea) is not a "problem created by the US". North Korea is the result of the direct intervention in Korea by the then USSR and the PRC. The PRC flooded Korea with soldiers, at one point, resulting in the current stalemate and has supported the North for many years.
Those "yearly war games" are simple exercises to enhance the defense against a clearly belligerent North.
Those "yearly war games" are simple exercises to enhance the defense against a clearly belligerent North.
3
We have countered the threat of the erratic, totalitarian leadership of North Korea by installing an equally erratic, totalitarian POTUS. We have figured out how to fight stupid with stupider.
8
So true. And I'm happy to be on the USA side. And so are you.
1
My impression is that South Korea really doesn't need its own ballistic missile program.
First, I have a feeling that we have NK targeted already and could incinerate the entire country at a moment's notice. Kim must already know this, so any additional threat from South Korea would have little impact on his decisions.
Second, any military action on the part of Kim would certainly involve a devastating artillery bombardment of Seoul and its 20 million people, including hundreds of Americans at the air base. Even taking out their missile-launching apparatus, which is largely underground, wouldn't save Seoul.
And before Trump initiates any military action at all against North Korea, he ought to brief himself on the last time we fought North Korea. He doesn't have to actually READ anything about it but there are very good, SHORT documentaries available on YouTube.
First, I have a feeling that we have NK targeted already and could incinerate the entire country at a moment's notice. Kim must already know this, so any additional threat from South Korea would have little impact on his decisions.
Second, any military action on the part of Kim would certainly involve a devastating artillery bombardment of Seoul and its 20 million people, including hundreds of Americans at the air base. Even taking out their missile-launching apparatus, which is largely underground, wouldn't save Seoul.
And before Trump initiates any military action at all against North Korea, he ought to brief himself on the last time we fought North Korea. He doesn't have to actually READ anything about it but there are very good, SHORT documentaries available on YouTube.
1
Why does NYT and other big media never tell the true story of North Korea? This country was almost demolished by us during the Korean War, with enormous U. S. firepower, millions of civilian deaths, and the bombing destruction, i. e., of a whole rice harvest. War by starvation! The war ended in 1953 and the two Koreas were created along the 38th parallel. North Korea stayed in the Soviet camp, so we helped only South Korea to recover. Thus there was a tremendous struggle to live and grow economically in the North. We're not the good guys -- as virtually always, we're the bad guys. Why were even on that peninsula? Greed and ridiculous fear of a form of government different from our own. North Korea has been more willing to negotiate than we have. Time to talk! South Korea has said it was willing -- that's a wonderful move. Talk -- and aid to the North -- should bring some reductions in their weapons, though they must feel they can defend themselves against a nuclear-mad, careless, and ever less pliant U. S. marthastephens.wordpress.com
4
if you knew your history you wouldn't say that. US is still the good guy there because NK funded by Soviet at the time started the Korean War and invades into SK. SO and US army pushed back and was so close to completing the Korean peninsula except China got involved because they didn't want someone on US side sharing direct border with China.
2
America has not "the bad guys". The DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) was partly established and aided by the USSR (http://www.alternativeinsight.com/Korean_War.html), in conjunction with the direct military support by the PRC. The Korean War was fought not just by the US but in conjunction with the UN as well, though the US was a major combatant.
You should really do more reading of this history, I think.
You should really do more reading of this history, I think.
1
nice going trump! you where warned about Koean nuclear war by president Obama, but you are playing golf, selling hats, tweeting about destroying our civil institutions and how unfair everyone is being toward you.
4
Yes, by all means, let's be sure every country has their share of nuclear warheads; when the world is blown to smithereens we don't want to be guilty of favoritism.
4
The only way to get Russia and China to intervene with North Korea is to do what they obviously have done with No. Korea--allow South Korea to become a nuclear power! Then the US, with this bargaining chip that threatens both China and Russia, can engage in mutual disarmament of the entire Peninsula.
5
The US is really NK's projection of their concerns about China. why would China cut in on this dance if they can learn so much about the US and NK by standing on the side.
Trump is stepping on everyone's toes and a brawl may break out. China may not know how to stop the irrational president who seems capable of doing the unthinkable.
Trump's ignorance of the region will exacerbate China's own conflicts of interest in the region. This will lead to an imbalance that will force China to act to defend one of its interests. Like the cities of America, the more weapons in the south east Asia, the more likely violence will follow.
Trump is stepping on everyone's toes and a brawl may break out. China may not know how to stop the irrational president who seems capable of doing the unthinkable.
Trump's ignorance of the region will exacerbate China's own conflicts of interest in the region. This will lead to an imbalance that will force China to act to defend one of its interests. Like the cities of America, the more weapons in the south east Asia, the more likely violence will follow.
2
Already there are sanctions against the Russians and North Korea. The U.S. should start to create sanctions against China. The trouble with the U.S. is that most of the time it plays "nice, nice" and follows the diplomatic protocols involved. China is the main backer of the North Koreans, and needs to be told to come to the diplomatic table!
It's about time, that the U.S. start to play hardball with the Chinese.
As for North Korea, not much can be done to placate the country. The U.S. should think more about protecting South Korea, and if that means more missile protection from North Korea, so be it.
It's about time, that the U.S. start to play hardball with the Chinese.
As for North Korea, not much can be done to placate the country. The U.S. should think more about protecting South Korea, and if that means more missile protection from North Korea, so be it.
4
I thought South Korea was seriously thinking about going nuclear. Maybe they should, that will be the only way they can be deterred. We can still be allies if they choose this route. I'm just tired of us getting involved when our allies in Asia are rich enough to defend themselves. We will have their back no matter what happens.
3
I have never understood China's supposed fear of a DPRK collapse. A nation of 1.4 billion with 2nd largest GDP can not absorb a fraction of 25 million possible refugees? Is it that DPRK nukes would become loose in such a scenario?
It doesn't make any sense to me that North Korea is developing nuclear-armed ICBMs to protect itself - its alliance with China guarantees its safety. I suspect that its primary purpose is to blackmail the U.S. to leave South Korea so that North Korea can conquer South Korea and re-unify the peninsula on its own nightmarish terms.
Our commitment to our alliances is about to be severely tested. If we fail the test, which seems almost inevitable, many more nations will develop their own arsenals.
Our commitment to our alliances is about to be severely tested. If we fail the test, which seems almost inevitable, many more nations will develop their own arsenals.
1
What about the magnificent beautiful piece of chocolate cake Trump served Xi?Wasn't that supposed to close the deal on North Korea? I knew there should have been ice cream! What kind of President serves cake without ice cream?
5
The only non-war option is to remove the North Korean leadership and install rational people. That job goes to China. Expecting reunification is futile. That may occur in 20 years, 50 years, or whenever. But negotiating will not work with the existing leadership.
Actually, we need to deploy a device that will turn North Korea's missiles to the west.
Maybe a UN resolution to guarantee the territorial boundaries of North Korea would make its nuclear program look like the silly waste it is.
Speaking of waste, one wonders what North Korea does with nuclear waste. The US stores it as if it expects the world to end too soon to make it worth the trouble to clean up.
Speaking of waste, one wonders what North Korea does with nuclear waste. The US stores it as if it expects the world to end too soon to make it worth the trouble to clean up.
2
"....apparent ability to strike California and beyond...." understates the danger. NK's latest missile was fired on a trajectory so close to vertical that it went 2,300 miles high. The orbit of the International Space Station is only about 1/10th of that high, so basically the missile was fired almost straight up. If it could reach that altitude it's more than likely that on a normal attacking trajectory it could reach anywhere in the continental United States. Not just California, but New York and Washington as well.
1
The only party who can deescalate this without provoking a third World War is China. We should be putting as much pressure on them as necessary. If Trump is half the negotiator he claims to be, he will start with a hard line ("You can trade with the North Koreans, or you can trade with the U.S. Starting today, you'll never trade with one again.") and go from there.
With China refusing to play responsible role in the region, and beyond, rather locked in territorial disputes with the neighbours, and North Korea going aggressive on the nuclear front, the fears of Korean peninsula turning nuclear flash point with ramifications beyond the region are becoming real.
2
India appears to be in the way of China's new silk road to Africa too.
1
Trump faces the same grave dilemma faced by Bush and Obama, very few options in attempting to reel in NK. Despite all of Trump's bluster, he really didn't understand what he faced until Xi sat him down at Mar A Lago and dumbed it down for him.
Trump already gave Beijing a huge gift when he pulled the U.S. out of the TPP, even if it was an unintentional gift by an incompetent President who has zero knowledge of international trade. And perhaps Trump sensed some chemistry with Xi in Florida, completely unaware that Xi was playing him. But rolling out juvenile tweets rails against China is a foolish tactic in any attempt to enlist the help of China.
It doesn't appear Trump has a strategy ahead in dealing with NK, perhaps Fox and Friends can telegraph a plan that will help our clueless President this week.
Trump already gave Beijing a huge gift when he pulled the U.S. out of the TPP, even if it was an unintentional gift by an incompetent President who has zero knowledge of international trade. And perhaps Trump sensed some chemistry with Xi in Florida, completely unaware that Xi was playing him. But rolling out juvenile tweets rails against China is a foolish tactic in any attempt to enlist the help of China.
It doesn't appear Trump has a strategy ahead in dealing with NK, perhaps Fox and Friends can telegraph a plan that will help our clueless President this week.
8
The Koreas scare the heck out of me. North Kore fires a missile or detonates a bomb at the drop of a hat. And, when you talk about North and South, you're talking about family. Family kills each other much more than mere neighbors. Moreover, the North is armed to the teeth while the South has full support of the most armed country in the world. Kim and Trump are about equally unpredictable and dangerous. And the Koreas have a history of war that they well remember.
Pakistan, India, and Iran have all been nuclear problems, but none has really come close. If it's going to happen in my lifetime. I think the Koreas are the no. 1 threat.
Americans don't pay a lot of attention to what goes on half way around the world. And despite the North's long range missile, no one expects them to target us. Their use of their missiles to deter us strikes me as sophisticated strategy. We dismiss Kim as a kook. Still, I don't think there's a hot spot any hotter than the Koreas.
Pakistan, India, and Iran have all been nuclear problems, but none has really come close. If it's going to happen in my lifetime. I think the Koreas are the no. 1 threat.
Americans don't pay a lot of attention to what goes on half way around the world. And despite the North's long range missile, no one expects them to target us. Their use of their missiles to deter us strikes me as sophisticated strategy. We dismiss Kim as a kook. Still, I don't think there's a hot spot any hotter than the Koreas.
2
Face down this crazy despot now, or face his nuclear tipped ballistic missiles later. Ignoring North Korea will only lead to a larger confrontation later.
3
You're ready for nuclear war?
The only trouble with this is we have an idiot real estate developer
as our Commander in chief.
as our Commander in chief.
1
News reports about the Korean problem are very much sounding like a broken phonograph record repeating itself over and over. For twenty years now we have heard the same old "song and dance". The situation could be summed up in one sentence: American policy has failed.
Mr. Kissinger has some good advice to offer and we need to embrace it. In the meantime, the North has illegally forced an arms race so we have no choice but to oblige. Additional trade sanctions also need to be imposed immediately on both Russia and China.
In the end there is no solution but to ensure a regime change - ideally brought on with support from the North Korean people. And we must demonstrate our commitment to minimizing any future military presence in a unified Korea as a condition of establishing democracy and peace.
Thank you Mr. Kissinger for providing a roadmap that is sensible and pragmatic. Unfortunately, we may have to wait until a new president is elected to implement such policy.
Mr. Kissinger has some good advice to offer and we need to embrace it. In the meantime, the North has illegally forced an arms race so we have no choice but to oblige. Additional trade sanctions also need to be imposed immediately on both Russia and China.
In the end there is no solution but to ensure a regime change - ideally brought on with support from the North Korean people. And we must demonstrate our commitment to minimizing any future military presence in a unified Korea as a condition of establishing democracy and peace.
Thank you Mr. Kissinger for providing a roadmap that is sensible and pragmatic. Unfortunately, we may have to wait until a new president is elected to implement such policy.
8
I know most commenters are intelligent people but I want to be certain all understand- there will be no help from
The " North Korean People". For 7 decades the population has been pushed psychologically into a transic state- he, his father and his grandfathers are not only dictators- to the population these people are Gods- quite literally his is what they are taogubt and what they believe. All the government does is feed them ( barely) food and feed them the idea hat the rest of the world wants to destroy them and their dear leader. Think here- he is addressed as " dear leader". They are not of right mind and have absolutely no idea of the outside world. Millions forage for human waste as food or to burn for warmth. Even hitler was working with millions of Germans, who at least at their core were angered by the results of WW1 and its humiliation on Germany, but they were an educated highly skilled population who were manipulated and yes, weak. However after horrific evil, Germany became a beautiful place of humanity again This cannot happen it NK. You must think of these people as deluded and completely controlled - it is a cult, not a country. I have never, ever supported a notion of preemption, but it may, horrifically be the only way.
The " North Korean People". For 7 decades the population has been pushed psychologically into a transic state- he, his father and his grandfathers are not only dictators- to the population these people are Gods- quite literally his is what they are taogubt and what they believe. All the government does is feed them ( barely) food and feed them the idea hat the rest of the world wants to destroy them and their dear leader. Think here- he is addressed as " dear leader". They are not of right mind and have absolutely no idea of the outside world. Millions forage for human waste as food or to burn for warmth. Even hitler was working with millions of Germans, who at least at their core were angered by the results of WW1 and its humiliation on Germany, but they were an educated highly skilled population who were manipulated and yes, weak. However after horrific evil, Germany became a beautiful place of humanity again This cannot happen it NK. You must think of these people as deluded and completely controlled - it is a cult, not a country. I have never, ever supported a notion of preemption, but it may, horrifically be the only way.
South Koreans elected a liberal. There is no resolve from South Korea. USA must first protect America from this psycho brutal dictator. USA ran out of options other than brute force. We have to remove most troops from the DMZ and unilaterally destroy North Korea's Capabilities. The longer we wait, the worse it gets.
2
Easy for you in California to say
Launch an attack on re North, and hundreds of thousands in Seoul die.
War is not the answer.
An end to threats to North Korea is the only way th create security for all
Launch an attack on re North, and hundreds of thousands in Seoul die.
War is not the answer.
An end to threats to North Korea is the only way th create security for all
3
WE need to understand the root of the paranoia in the North, engage them in negotiations and try to normalize the situation without a game of nuclear chicken. Stop tweeting insults about the leader ship of China- what an idiotic way to conduct diplomacy. Try the approach used with Iran, with the international community giving a carrot to get rid of a big stick. If we can get a deal even close to the Iran deal we might avoid war and the untold "unintended" consequences--c.f. invasion of Iraq- that really worked out well....
2
North Korea's crazy leader is a crazy but clever opportunist...pushing his agenda thanks to the marvellous opportunities offered by a very, very strange US administration.
Cartoonesque for sure, and maybe terrifying...even without Korean nuking.
Cartoonesque for sure, and maybe terrifying...even without Korean nuking.
That is kind of funny. The North does what it wants and the south has to ask for permission to arm themselves from the U.S. Gee I hope we allow them to have more weapons.
1
Let me get this straight. The same guy who can’t get Mexico to pay for a crummy wall is going to get Kim, Putin and Xi to do something about North Korea that helps the U.S.
Pardon me while I fall down laughing.
Pardon me while I fall down laughing.
7
I don't think we have to worry so much about Trump starting a holocaust. If he's like most bullies, he's a coward and worries more about his own skin. We do need to worry about Russia's alliance with China and especially North Korea and the Trump/Russia connection, which makes all this a bit more of a sticky wicket than one might think.
You forget that cowards let others take the heat and fight the fight whilst they hide in the background.
In a bizzaro world scenario, wouldn't it be something to find out that our unhinged president actually wishes to have buddy Putin help us with the NK thing....
It's time to get real, anybody's anti missile system is easy to overcome. Take Korea for example, they have thousands of missiles they can fire, all they have to do is let the Nuke be one of them. There is only one option, negotiate
To all my nit-wit cousins who voted for this ignorant sociopath - the gloves are off.
This is on you.
You put a mentally ill, inexperienced, angry and malignant narcissist in charge of matters like those described in this very scary article.
I am not going to the next cook-out.
This is on you.
You put a mentally ill, inexperienced, angry and malignant narcissist in charge of matters like those described in this very scary article.
I am not going to the next cook-out.
11
South Korea needs to scrap their limits on ballistic missiles as soon as possible, and the Unites States should at least acquiesce if not outright help the South Koreans build up an indigenous arsenal. Something that doesn't just have enough range and throw weight to seriously bother aggressive neighbors, but also something that's easily adapted to a possible future South Korean nuclear weapons program. Each day that goes by makes it seem more and more likely that South Korea will need it.
1
Time for some diplomatic Judo on China. China backs North Korea because it sees them as a buffer between the West and China. It also back NK because it fears that a collapse of the Kim regime will lead to a mass refugee crisis across its borders.
We need to remind the Chinese that Kim is in fact crazy. That unless restrained, he will do something that will spark an armed response from the West. Such an event would be a disaster for China. Millions of starving, unskilled, uneducated North Koreans would pour across the border with China. If China chooses to intervene in the war there would be huge casualties on all sides. The resulting sanctions and economic disruption would devastate the Chinese economy. Many within China could see this as an opportune time to press there demands for change. The restive western provinces with their Muslim populations could rise up in revolt. China could find itself fighting both East and West. A war in North Korea would be a disaster for China no matter what the eventual outcome.
It might be better for all concerned if China were to invite Kim to Beijing, something he has always wanted, and then have him disappear. In the meantime a new more biddable government would be installed in North Korea, with a promise from the West not to try to take advantage of the change. After that, the whole situation could ratchet down with concessions from both sides to be negotiated.
We need to remind the Chinese that Kim is in fact crazy. That unless restrained, he will do something that will spark an armed response from the West. Such an event would be a disaster for China. Millions of starving, unskilled, uneducated North Koreans would pour across the border with China. If China chooses to intervene in the war there would be huge casualties on all sides. The resulting sanctions and economic disruption would devastate the Chinese economy. Many within China could see this as an opportune time to press there demands for change. The restive western provinces with their Muslim populations could rise up in revolt. China could find itself fighting both East and West. A war in North Korea would be a disaster for China no matter what the eventual outcome.
It might be better for all concerned if China were to invite Kim to Beijing, something he has always wanted, and then have him disappear. In the meantime a new more biddable government would be installed in North Korea, with a promise from the West not to try to take advantage of the change. After that, the whole situation could ratchet down with concessions from both sides to be negotiated.
How right you are , but how frightening- who shall we send to remind China that Koreas dear leader is crazy??? Ours???
After reviewing comments, important statistics should be noted. Japan and South Korea have the third and eleventh largest GDP on the planet. (Both surpass that of Russia.) South Korea, with a population twice that of its contiguous northern neighbor, and an economy many times greater, has sufficient capabilities to defend itself.
1
Dr. Kissinger, a brilliant geopolitical strategist with tendency to work along with the Chinese Communist Party, seems to have suggested a brilliant idea: the White House promises Beijing that the US will leave Korean Peninsula to let Beijing, Seoul, and Tokyo struggle to decide its fate once Pyongyang collapses. (a wild card is Moscow and unpredictable in this case) The best bet should be that Koreans would love to be governed/subjected by Beijing rather than by Tokyo. Even if it means Chines Communist Party would influence the Peninsula like they do with Hong Kong and Cambodia, ordinary Koreans who voted the current president in a friendly-to-Pyongyang-platform into the office would tolerate or welcome influence from the North. Tokyo and Taipei would be swallowed by Chinese Communist Party and its military arm, People's Liberation Army; let's see.
1
Brilliant- the bombing of Cambodia and the expansion of the Vietnam war-- that worked out well, eh?? 2 MILLION dead...but not in our backyard so hey, who cares...
1
President Moon and his military advisers are making proposals that will be viewed favorably by Washington in an effort to buy time with the hope that something will give in the realm of foreign policy before devastating military action comes from a volatile D.C..
Trump and Tillerson are rattling sabers and must be diverted in the hope that from other sources solutions will be advanced; Mr Kissinger’s being a wise one based on knowledge of the factors at play. Moon knows this is not a war game but a game to stabilize the Peninsula at last in some manner. A wise leader for his people hoping to find a way.
Trump and Tillerson are rattling sabers and must be diverted in the hope that from other sources solutions will be advanced; Mr Kissinger’s being a wise one based on knowledge of the factors at play. Moon knows this is not a war game but a game to stabilize the Peninsula at last in some manner. A wise leader for his people hoping to find a way.
“I believe we have a better chance of getting to the nuclear problem with North Korea if we first come to an agreement with China about what follows after the collapse of the North Korean regime,” Mr. Kissinger said
Kissinger is right on the money. We have the know-how to take out Kim. But we need to figure how to deal with the aftermath, and before Kim learns how to tip his missiles with nukes.
Kissinger is right on the money. We have the know-how to take out Kim. But we need to figure how to deal with the aftermath, and before Kim learns how to tip his missiles with nukes.
2
Now, not leading, having irrational leader, narcissist leader, unreliable leader, unreliable GOP congress; every friend of ours will want to build their own weapons. (Trump and supporters wanted them to pay; they're paying and building their own).
Now this world looks like a Red state, where everyone is packed to neck and no one is trusting each other.
No one can be powerful and a leader now; as you can't lead a weaponized crowd, who don't trust anyone including themselves.
Welcome to world war III.
Now this world looks like a Red state, where everyone is packed to neck and no one is trusting each other.
No one can be powerful and a leader now; as you can't lead a weaponized crowd, who don't trust anyone including themselves.
Welcome to world war III.
2
In terms of nuclear weapons development, NK tested one device during the Bush administration, but 5 during the Obama administration. NK made its greatest advances in nuclear weapons technology under Obama. Unlike previous efforts under Clinton and Bush to control nuclear weapons development, Obama turned a blind eye to NK, but instead focused on Iran, making concessions to that regime so it will eventually have its own nuclear arsenal. Now NK is developing at a rapid pace the means to delver its nukes. The rise of NK as a an asian nuclear power is because of Obama. NK's rise reflects Obama's attitude that America was not any better than any other nation on earth. Obama opposed American exceptionalism. Well that's wrong. American exceptionalism explains why people want to come to this country. You don't see them flocking to NK and Iran. They want to come here. Especially now that Obama is no longer the president.
3
I guess now, is a time when we should be relying on our State Department and the Diplomats, unfortunately in light of the shortsightedness and inexperience from the top on down, they have cut and eliminated positions that would be crucial in this dangerous time.
This is something Trump's incompetence has endangered this country at a critical juncture.
This is something Trump's incompetence has endangered this country at a critical juncture.
1
So true- what percent of the state dept left or was booted? 80%?? Disgusting.
Simple and effective solution:
1. The President declares a national emergency. Announces that the national emergency will require sacrifice.
2. Then President announces that no ship that has docked in a Chinese port can unload in an American one until China ceases all trade with North Korea.
3. President announces that China can trade with the US or with North Korea, but not both.
4. Perhaps other nations will do the same, but that will not affect the outcome.
5. China has no option but to cease trade with North Korea or face economic ruin.
6. This continues until North Korea comes to the bargaining table and agrees to disarm its nuclear and ballistic weapons under international inspection regime.
7. North Korea, having no choice, agrees--perhaps after quick internal regime change.
8. DONE!
1. The President declares a national emergency. Announces that the national emergency will require sacrifice.
2. Then President announces that no ship that has docked in a Chinese port can unload in an American one until China ceases all trade with North Korea.
3. President announces that China can trade with the US or with North Korea, but not both.
4. Perhaps other nations will do the same, but that will not affect the outcome.
5. China has no option but to cease trade with North Korea or face economic ruin.
6. This continues until North Korea comes to the bargaining table and agrees to disarm its nuclear and ballistic weapons under international inspection regime.
7. North Korea, having no choice, agrees--perhaps after quick internal regime change.
8. DONE!
3
And China demands repayment of the hundreds of billions of dollars the US owes it.
Yours is a plan to bankrupt everyone
Yours is a plan to bankrupt everyone
3
You forgot. It's a national emergency. They may demand, but we don't pay. You might say we temporarily default. Who would care?
Want to give the little crazy guy in North Korea the weapons to destroy us?
Those hundreds of billions represent what China has sent to us, net. They risk extreme turmoil and possibly revolution if we cut off their products. They're not going to do it, not going to risk it for the little crazy guy in North Korea.
Want to give the little crazy guy in North Korea the weapons to destroy us?
Those hundreds of billions represent what China has sent to us, net. They risk extreme turmoil and possibly revolution if we cut off their products. They're not going to do it, not going to risk it for the little crazy guy in North Korea.
1
It would be delightful if that would work. The problem is,
Perhaps
The one thing our Trump does know, is the immense amount of wealth and control China has on our banks
And currency. Period.
Perhaps
The one thing our Trump does know, is the immense amount of wealth and control China has on our banks
And currency. Period.
Typical Trump. Blame China. That's all Trump is good at, blaming others for his incompetence. Blame Dems, Republicans, FBI Director, Attorney General, all stupid, weak in Trump's mind, what little there is of it. Trump is a combination of all his vicious tweets he attacks others with. Trump is the worse president there ever was, worse there will ever be. The United States has reached the abyss, and as long as Trump remains in charge, has the potential for going off the edge. America, you've really done it now.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
DIPLOMACY could solve this -- too bad we lost that when Trump was elected!
1
Diplomacy provides a solution? It's really worked for the last 20 years or so, hasn't it? It should be clear by now that Kim will do whatever he feels he can get away with, and he was allowed to go much too far while Obama was president... And after he saw what happened to Gaddafi as a result of our SOS's stupidity and Obama's own Arab spring delusions, Kim decided giving up his nuke program might not be a real bright idea... So now we have to deal with him, firmly and finally...
Note to those who casually suggest military intervention: that didn't work out so well for Saddam Hussein or Muammar Gaddafi, and Kim knows it. Why would he capitulate?
The proposed meeting with Donald and Kim will be a contest between two people who want validation. It reminds me of Woody Allen's joke about the atheist calling Dial-a-Prayer and hearing nothing.
Our best option is negotiation with China and the North Koreans, with South Korea and Russia and Japan at the table. and the sooner, the better.
The proposed meeting with Donald and Kim will be a contest between two people who want validation. It reminds me of Woody Allen's joke about the atheist calling Dial-a-Prayer and hearing nothing.
Our best option is negotiation with China and the North Koreans, with South Korea and Russia and Japan at the table. and the sooner, the better.
So it's almost time for US to start shooting the missiles down whenever they fly. Or find out if we cannot. Or destroy them on the ground. Evidently this is going to escalate in any case. Hit first? Hit hard?
1
Trump should gird for all out war with North Korea. Anything less will be seen as weakness and provoke a North Korea attack on Japan or South Korea. We must use the sledge hammer to step on the ant. Only then can there be hope for peace.
2
This development raises once again the larger question of nuclear weaponized states. The current situation, where 10 or so countries have nukes, is to put it in mathematical terms, an unstable fixed point. There are only two stable fixed points:
1. No country in the world has nukes.
2. Every country in the world has nukes.
Obviously 1 is better than 2, and if we were there, could be enforced by international agreements that the rest of the world would be allowed to take out any country that tried to get nukes again. But to get there we would have to acknowledge that we are no Boy Scouts, and that there are plenty of belligerent actions on our part -- toppling the elected Iranian govt., invading the tiny country of Grenada so another idiot president could claim a "win," aiding and abetting some pretty disgusting dictators over the last hundred years and continuing. Not gonna happen.
1. No country in the world has nukes.
2. Every country in the world has nukes.
Obviously 1 is better than 2, and if we were there, could be enforced by international agreements that the rest of the world would be allowed to take out any country that tried to get nukes again. But to get there we would have to acknowledge that we are no Boy Scouts, and that there are plenty of belligerent actions on our part -- toppling the elected Iranian govt., invading the tiny country of Grenada so another idiot president could claim a "win," aiding and abetting some pretty disgusting dictators over the last hundred years and continuing. Not gonna happen.
To my great surprise, the solution to North Korea's "nuclear threat" has been clearly stated by The New York Times: "Demonstrating that IF THE UNITED STATES EVER THREATENED the regime of Kim Jong-un, the leader and grand-son of the country's founder, it HAD THE ABILITY to threaten death and destruction in the continental United States."
The boys around the world who have been given power - or stolen power in most cases - are beating the war drums. They must be bored like little boys in prep/military school so they want to fight and show off their fighting "toys".
Seems they do not care that those little "toys" will kill average people around the world and their children/grandchildren.
China's "leader" is building an elite military with modern war capabilities. Does anyone remember that for many years the Chinese could only have one child and that many families made sure that child was a boy? Can you just imagine how "bored" those spoiled boys are now?
If strong man leaders get their way and start WW3 I bet on China. The International Mafia doesn't care who wins - they own/control money/resources around the world. Until, that is, WE take away their money and power. Believe it or not OUR 401K, Consumer and hard-earned Tax dollars are still the key along with grassroots synergistic protests. Without OUR money and OUR support the the Robber Barons are nothing.
Seems they do not care that those little "toys" will kill average people around the world and their children/grandchildren.
China's "leader" is building an elite military with modern war capabilities. Does anyone remember that for many years the Chinese could only have one child and that many families made sure that child was a boy? Can you just imagine how "bored" those spoiled boys are now?
If strong man leaders get their way and start WW3 I bet on China. The International Mafia doesn't care who wins - they own/control money/resources around the world. Until, that is, WE take away their money and power. Believe it or not OUR 401K, Consumer and hard-earned Tax dollars are still the key along with grassroots synergistic protests. Without OUR money and OUR support the the Robber Barons are nothing.
3
Yes, and the media is advancing the war narrative, suggesting war is imminent and likely. No talk of rethinking our "one Korea" policy, which is so threatening to China and North Korea. Thank you for bringing this up.
1
Time to tell Russia and especially China reign in North Korea. If they do not we should threaten to embark upon a Manhattan project level program to develop and deploy a ballistic missile defense system. See how much they like Kim then.
1
American News (incl. NYT) has reported that it appears that Russia is helping North Korea advance quickly with nuclear/ballistic technology. Like Vietnam and Cuba, North Korea is a pawn of Moscow. China has done well after the collapse of the old communist world, but Russia has not, and Obama was able to gut Russia's economy in half through Oil/Rubble manipulation, sanctioning for Ukraine. Russia is now playing it's military card through proxy. We need to deal with Russia economically, so they can advance like China, out of the dark ages. If we don't, they may ruin it for everyone else.
2
"American news (inc. NYT) has reported" ergo it is true.
1
Really? Must be true, right? How about in 2016, "American news (including NYT) has reported that Hillary Clinton will lead Democracts to landslide victory of epic proportions..."?
The question here is when will trump force the conflict to the point where the crisis becomes a holocaust. This ignorant, narcissist is the most dangerous human on the planet.
4
The next time the N. Koreans send up an ICBM, the Israelis will have a great opportunity to test an Arrow 3 anti ballistic missile system. It works better than anything we currently can field, and does the interception during the outer space phase of the ICBMs trajectory. If it works, we can buy a few dozen.
1
Paging Rex Tillerson...Paging Rex Tillerson...Rex? Anyone seen Rex?
5
we need someone who knows international policies and culture not a oil expert, he can not think past seeing the money. This is one of the many reason that America mess up Iraq so badly' Chaney could not get past the $$$ and thinking America would get their oil.
We also need a few adults to step forward who care more about this country and humanity than how they can advance themselves. We saw some of this, this week. Maybe that will get the ball going in the right direction. This situation has gotten very dangerous.
We also need a few adults to step forward who care more about this country and humanity than how they can advance themselves. We saw some of this, this week. Maybe that will get the ball going in the right direction. This situation has gotten very dangerous.
Surprising how many commentators agree with Trump with regards to China and Russia taking responsibility for NK. Trump initiated all the tit for tat with NK when he opened his foul mouth. His rudimentary and brash language is not appreciated where ever he goes, more so in North and South East Asia.
4
Nuclear armed North Korea moving inexorably toward full blown ICBM nuclear capability.
A rapidly escalating arms race on the Korean Peninsula and likely beyond.
Tweeter Trump and Kim Jung-un driving the train in N. Korea. Akin to mixing rocket fuel and oxygen — a huge existential threat.
Absolutely nothing sanguine here.
A rapidly escalating arms race on the Korean Peninsula and likely beyond.
Tweeter Trump and Kim Jung-un driving the train in N. Korea. Akin to mixing rocket fuel and oxygen — a huge existential threat.
Absolutely nothing sanguine here.
4
It's gone too far.
The only choice we have an overwhelming pre-emotive attack.
It won't be pretty but it must happen.
The only choice we have an overwhelming pre-emotive attack.
It won't be pretty but it must happen.
1
It is to late for a "pre-omotive" attack. The emotions, especially rage, are out in the open.
Some time ago a crazy dream came to me
I dreamt I was walkin' into World War Three
I went to the doctor the very next day
To see what kinda words he could say
He said it was a bad dream
I wouldn't worry 'bout it none, though
They're dreams and they're only in your head.
I said, "Hold it, Doc, a World War passed through my brain".
He said, "Nurse, get your pad, this boy's insane".
He grabbed my arm, I said "Ouch".
As I landed on the psychiatric couch
He said, "Tell me about it".
Well, I rung the fallout shelter bell
And leaned my head and I gave a yell
"Give me a string bean I'm a hungry man"
A shortgun fired and away I ran
I don't blame them too much though
They didn't know me.
Down at the corner by a hot-dog stand
I seen a man I said "Howdy friend,
I guess there's just us two"
He screamed a bit and away he flew
Thought it was a Communist.
Well the doctor interrupted me just about then
Sayin' "Hey I've been havin' the same old dreams
But mine was a little different you see
I dreamt that the only person left after the war was me
I didn't see you around".
Well, now time passed and now it seems
Everybody's having them dreams
Everybody sees themselves walkin' around with no one else
Half of the people can be part right all of the time
Some of the people can be all right part of the time
But all of the people can't be all right all of the time
I think Abraham Lincoln said that
"I'll let you be in my dreams if I can be in yours".
I said that.
I dreamt I was walkin' into World War Three
I went to the doctor the very next day
To see what kinda words he could say
He said it was a bad dream
I wouldn't worry 'bout it none, though
They're dreams and they're only in your head.
I said, "Hold it, Doc, a World War passed through my brain".
He said, "Nurse, get your pad, this boy's insane".
He grabbed my arm, I said "Ouch".
As I landed on the psychiatric couch
He said, "Tell me about it".
Well, I rung the fallout shelter bell
And leaned my head and I gave a yell
"Give me a string bean I'm a hungry man"
A shortgun fired and away I ran
I don't blame them too much though
They didn't know me.
Down at the corner by a hot-dog stand
I seen a man I said "Howdy friend,
I guess there's just us two"
He screamed a bit and away he flew
Thought it was a Communist.
Well the doctor interrupted me just about then
Sayin' "Hey I've been havin' the same old dreams
But mine was a little different you see
I dreamt that the only person left after the war was me
I didn't see you around".
Well, now time passed and now it seems
Everybody's having them dreams
Everybody sees themselves walkin' around with no one else
Half of the people can be part right all of the time
Some of the people can be all right part of the time
But all of the people can't be all right all of the time
I think Abraham Lincoln said that
"I'll let you be in my dreams if I can be in yours".
I said that.
Time for talk is over. Trump repeatedly telling North Korea that they have been very very naughty is a joke.
Where have your balls gone USA hit back hard
Where have your balls gone USA hit back hard
3
Much of The reason China deals with North Korea is so it won't be totally isolated. All alone like a scared animal. With more people starving than there already are. China might prefer to not even deal with N Korea, but feels someone has too... In the end I think there's three options here. Go to war and chance destruction & casualties like we have never ever seen before. And we may not be able to come from. .... We can keep going as things have been, sanctions, provocation, no ending..... Or we can start talking at high levels, start limited trade, cultural exchange, drop the sanctions, and try to change from example... Well some of the other Western countries' example anyway. Our moral fiber right now is very questionable, to say the least.
Orange, NJ
Orange, NJ
2
The fear of mass casualties from conflict between North and South Korea, including the 39000 U.S. troops in South Korea will cause the U.S. to do nothing other than expel a lot of hot air about acting. China and Russia watered down the latest sanctions, they actually enjoy seeing the U.S. be harassed by an ally. At some point at least Japan and perhaps South Korea will join the arms race to protect themselves against NK. Because the U.S. has become less engaged in the world and we have an unstable leader, this will be seen as proof that they cannot count on us anymore to protect them, much like Europe already feels.
2
Since the end of the Korean War, we've pursued a policy of holding South Korea back from using their economic power, and their technological prowess, to annihilate North Korea.
We thought we had a shot at peace on the peninsula, and a chance to avoid yet another showdown with China, just by maintaining the status quo. A showdown with massive potential to re-awaken the cold war. We figured if we hung around it would work out like Europe, turns out we were wrong.
Since the death of Kim Jong-il, it's all gone up in smoke. Poof. Not that we ever really had a chance with him or his father. Now we've got crazy on both sides of the pacific, with Donnie and Fatty at the helms, probably to the delight of Xi and Putin.
This is just what we need, an arms race on the peninsula that will probably have to include Japan this time. Considering our troops and bases in the thick of things, that would be a very bad prospect.
Here we go again.
We thought we had a shot at peace on the peninsula, and a chance to avoid yet another showdown with China, just by maintaining the status quo. A showdown with massive potential to re-awaken the cold war. We figured if we hung around it would work out like Europe, turns out we were wrong.
Since the death of Kim Jong-il, it's all gone up in smoke. Poof. Not that we ever really had a chance with him or his father. Now we've got crazy on both sides of the pacific, with Donnie and Fatty at the helms, probably to the delight of Xi and Putin.
This is just what we need, an arms race on the peninsula that will probably have to include Japan this time. Considering our troops and bases in the thick of things, that would be a very bad prospect.
Here we go again.
1
Re-imagining our president's comment on health care and his thoughts on the Korea situation:
"Nobody knew foreign policy could be so complicated".
Really?
Maybe if Rex Tillerson would start appointing experts to fill empty senior positions in the State Department, we could put a brain trust to work on this, as well as those those other "complicated" foreign affairs problems.
We need more smart, seasoned folks in government, not Tweets.
"Nobody knew foreign policy could be so complicated".
Really?
Maybe if Rex Tillerson would start appointing experts to fill empty senior positions in the State Department, we could put a brain trust to work on this, as well as those those other "complicated" foreign affairs problems.
We need more smart, seasoned folks in government, not Tweets.
5
After reading so many comments here about building up arms, I would hope that many would remember the final quote of the 1983 movie, War Games. "THE ONLY WAY TO WIN IS NOT TO PLAY" We have been so insulated on a personal level from the horrors of war that it we really do not understand the devastating effects. Talk to a Syrian refugee family before you form the opinion that we should foster a solution based on military or arms buildup.
2
Here we go again. More hysteria from the media and from the warmongers. Haven't we learned anything from Saddam Hussein and the so called weapons of mass destruction? In case you're unaware, we have over 6,000 nuclear warheads and North Korea only have 10. If Kim fires them at us, he gains nothing but the permanent end of his country. It's simple mathematics that even a child can understand. He may be mad, but not that mad. If I were you I'd be more concerned about the shenanigans of the current occupant at the White House than what goes on the other side of the world.
5
What is happening at the White House is encouraging this mess.
The MSM has long bought the false argument that China is afraid of a swarm of refugees from a collapsing North Korea. Even Trump has been gamed by the Chinese. They have every interest in a nuclear North Korea. It destabilizes the South Korean and the relationship with the US.
China supports North Korea because North Korea has given China a naval based on the East Sea [Sea of Japan]. Russia supports North Korean because there is a train line from Russia that runs to a warm water ports.
It is time to fully support South Korean and Japanese efforts to protect themselves. This includes having them develop nuclear weapons.
China supports North Korea because North Korea has given China a naval based on the East Sea [Sea of Japan]. Russia supports North Korean because there is a train line from Russia that runs to a warm water ports.
It is time to fully support South Korean and Japanese efforts to protect themselves. This includes having them develop nuclear weapons.
2
@Amy
You could back up and read a little history and find more that a sea port and a rail line for the interactions of these nations. You are right 'the swarm of refugees" as a little thin, a buffer against an American client state on its boarder much thicker.
The USSR created a communist state as the Japanese retreated in 1945 and Mao’s new China came to DPRK's aid in 1950 when the UN joined the battle in So. Korea in its ‘War against American Aggression’ as he labeled it. But relations have never been close and are not now.
You could back up and read a little history and find more that a sea port and a rail line for the interactions of these nations. You are right 'the swarm of refugees" as a little thin, a buffer against an American client state on its boarder much thicker.
The USSR created a communist state as the Japanese retreated in 1945 and Mao’s new China came to DPRK's aid in 1950 when the UN joined the battle in So. Korea in its ‘War against American Aggression’ as he labeled it. But relations have never been close and are not now.
I think the US has no options left but to take military action against North Korea.
It is justified as defensive precautions as Kim JOng Un keeps threatening to launch nukes and other WMD at America !
Trump's patience as I have long asserted is running very close to the line now and Kim keeps pushing the envelope provoking Trump and pushing him into a corner of no choices !
The ideal way is to surgically strike NK's artillery and missile launch areas then takeout Kim if possible, thus providing the NK military the opportunity
to end their aggression and restart anew.
If nothing is done to curb NK's nuke and other WMD programmes accelerations asap Alaska, Hawaii and the US west coast can be considered imminent targets !
It is justified as defensive precautions as Kim JOng Un keeps threatening to launch nukes and other WMD at America !
Trump's patience as I have long asserted is running very close to the line now and Kim keeps pushing the envelope provoking Trump and pushing him into a corner of no choices !
The ideal way is to surgically strike NK's artillery and missile launch areas then takeout Kim if possible, thus providing the NK military the opportunity
to end their aggression and restart anew.
If nothing is done to curb NK's nuke and other WMD programmes accelerations asap Alaska, Hawaii and the US west coast can be considered imminent targets !
"I am very disappointed in China,” Mr. Trump said in a Saturday night post on Twitter. “Our foolish past leaders have allowed them to make hundreds of billions of dollars a year in trade, yet they do NOTHING for us with North Korea, just talk. We will no longer allow this to continue.”
I guess that means the trump and Kushner families will no longer do business with those awful Chinese.
Or will they?
Guess we'll see if the Familia is willing to put it's money where it's Dear Leader's mouth is.
P.S. Don't expect to be pleasantly surprised...
I guess that means the trump and Kushner families will no longer do business with those awful Chinese.
Or will they?
Guess we'll see if the Familia is willing to put it's money where it's Dear Leader's mouth is.
P.S. Don't expect to be pleasantly surprised...
2
It is becoming increasingly difficult to see a path on which the Korean War does not go hot again but with 21sr century technology. At this point it deems as if China is incapable of restraining Kim. NK might be beaten quickly and severely but not before SK sustained catastrophic losses.
The mainstream media is at it again, repeatedly advancing the narrative that war with North Korea is imminent and inevitable.
Although they despise Trump, media felt his strike against Syria rendered him "presidential."
We can't negotiate with Iran but a warm relationship with Saudi Arabia with all its human rights violations is acceptable.
Diplomacy options are ignored and/or belittled.
Please BEWARE. History is repeating itself.
Although they despise Trump, media felt his strike against Syria rendered him "presidential."
We can't negotiate with Iran but a warm relationship with Saudi Arabia with all its human rights violations is acceptable.
Diplomacy options are ignored and/or belittled.
Please BEWARE. History is repeating itself.
1
What if we tried to see Kim Jong Un as like just a malicious, troublesome guy who happens to be in a control of a nation and of nuclear weapons that are almost completed? Would that maybe help us look at this, if we tried to dispense with the glamor of someone being a national leader?
If just some 33 year old, fat, 5' 7" Korean guy started pushing you around in a supermarket, you wouldn't think it's ok. This is just that same person with a different context. Instead of having to settle for keying your car's paint job in the parking lot or something like that, he's aiming some of history's most sophisticated weapons towards us and our allies.
If just some 33 year old, fat, 5' 7" Korean guy started pushing you around in a supermarket, you wouldn't think it's ok. This is just that same person with a different context. Instead of having to settle for keying your car's paint job in the parking lot or something like that, he's aiming some of history's most sophisticated weapons towards us and our allies.
Sounds like McArthur was right and we should have taken care of North Korea and China in the early 1950s, with nuclear weapons if necessary. That might have ensured Vietnam and the rest of world events took a different course. Sometimes, you have to be (very) cruel to be kind.
As it is now, millions of South Koreans will die in any move on North Korea. But it won't be WWIII as neither China nor Russia have enough interests to fight on this.
But, maybe, in order to forestall a real WWIII, it is necessary to take North Korea out completely. Trump, as the loose cannon, may be the president to do this. And restore order. To, as the French say, pour encourager les autres (encourage the others).
As it is now, millions of South Koreans will die in any move on North Korea. But it won't be WWIII as neither China nor Russia have enough interests to fight on this.
But, maybe, in order to forestall a real WWIII, it is necessary to take North Korea out completely. Trump, as the loose cannon, may be the president to do this. And restore order. To, as the French say, pour encourager les autres (encourage the others).
David Sanger....please interview the Generals and Admirals....
because....this hyperbole which you write here is
CONTRARY to their thinking......NEGOTIATIONS....are necessary with China.
China is the key to the sanctions on North Korea....
War is never the solution: NEVER WAR....always....REASON....make that your
mantra Sanger....and never forget it !!!
because....this hyperbole which you write here is
CONTRARY to their thinking......NEGOTIATIONS....are necessary with China.
China is the key to the sanctions on North Korea....
War is never the solution: NEVER WAR....always....REASON....make that your
mantra Sanger....and never forget it !!!
6
“It takes a president of the United States who has the intellectual, global and historical depth” to deal with the Korean crisis, said R. Nicholas Burns, who served as undersecretary of state for political affairs in the Bush administration."
In the first sentence of the paragraph above, Nicholas Burns calls attention to the clear and present danger presented by the nuclear standoff in the Korean Peninsula. The US president is Donald Trump.
In the first sentence of the paragraph above, Nicholas Burns calls attention to the clear and present danger presented by the nuclear standoff in the Korean Peninsula. The US president is Donald Trump.
1
And so another arms race begins with two juvenile megalomaniacs thumping their chests. I am praying that somewhere in the world are some grownups who understand two things and can somehow stop both these idiots ... (1) this can lead to really undesired consequences, and (2) considering how, much money all these toys of war cost, wouldn't it be great if it could be spent on something productive?
1
China has an added responsibility to restrain best friend North Korea from going ballistic over ballistic Missiles.
The responsibilities stems from China's Overt and Covert Support for North Korea.
Every single piece of equipment for North Korea's ICBM is Chinese including the paint on the missile launcher.
Look no further to tighten the screws on North Korea.
Tighten the Screws of Trade with China.
Things will set in place for Kim.
The responsibilities stems from China's Overt and Covert Support for North Korea.
Every single piece of equipment for North Korea's ICBM is Chinese including the paint on the missile launcher.
Look no further to tighten the screws on North Korea.
Tighten the Screws of Trade with China.
Things will set in place for Kim.
Can't we shoot down every missile they launch from subs. There doesn't seem to be any other way to discourage them. Diplomacy doesn't work with tyrants. Kim is bent on being a threat to us. And by the way why aren't our people scared and outraged by this? I haven't heard any outcry. Our people seem complacent right now about not having a rational leader and nuclear threats as well. With China being part of the region, I would think that they would be very concerned about a nuclear proliferation among its neighbors. And if they aren't concerned, why not? This matter is even a greater concern than healthcare. Why aren't people marching in the streets and sitting on the capital steps over this?
South Korea did a decent job. Offer an olive branch to North Korea to negotiate. When the North's response is more missile testing, they move to get bigger and longer range missiles on their soil. The failed diplomacy gives the South the public support to escalate.
So now the onus is on China who have to face not only Thaad but South Korean missiles capable of striking them. The key has always been getting China to bear down hard on North Korea and this is a good double stick that shows strong cooperation between two countries. The carrot is Mr Kissinger's suggestion we assure the Chinese if North Korea falls, we won't put US military forces on their border.
South Korea shows good leadership in a dangerous situation. By first refusing to accept Thaad, they took the initiative away from the US who has virtually no leverage with North Korea anyway. They showed they were willing to cooperate with the US and put even more pressure on China. Finally their actions surely has popular support since it showed independence from the US.
This may work out so well, Trump will take credit for it and annoy everybody who actually did the work.
So now the onus is on China who have to face not only Thaad but South Korean missiles capable of striking them. The key has always been getting China to bear down hard on North Korea and this is a good double stick that shows strong cooperation between two countries. The carrot is Mr Kissinger's suggestion we assure the Chinese if North Korea falls, we won't put US military forces on their border.
South Korea shows good leadership in a dangerous situation. By first refusing to accept Thaad, they took the initiative away from the US who has virtually no leverage with North Korea anyway. They showed they were willing to cooperate with the US and put even more pressure on China. Finally their actions surely has popular support since it showed independence from the US.
This may work out so well, Trump will take credit for it and annoy everybody who actually did the work.
4
Henry Kissenger is right about China's economic clout over North Korea and Beijing's fear of the regime's collapse and a reunification of the two Koreas under Seoul's auspices more than its nuclear weapons. Once the buffer state is gone China would have American troops on its borders. He suggests Washington to "allay the Chinese fear" and commit to a withdrawal of "most of its troops" from the region.
The other theory about North Korea's nuclear weapons is that they wouldn't be used to primarily target the US, but serve as a warning that Washington shouldn't come to Seoul's rescue, should Pyongyang decide to reunify with the South under Kim's terms. The young despot won't give up his pet weapons, because he knew how the tragic ends of Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi haunted his father.
The new South Korean president, Moon Jae-in had pledged to resume the "sun-shine" policy with the North that his predecessors before Park Guen-hye adopted. It seems he has to change his course of action since recent events.
The other theory about North Korea's nuclear weapons is that they wouldn't be used to primarily target the US, but serve as a warning that Washington shouldn't come to Seoul's rescue, should Pyongyang decide to reunify with the South under Kim's terms. The young despot won't give up his pet weapons, because he knew how the tragic ends of Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi haunted his father.
The new South Korean president, Moon Jae-in had pledged to resume the "sun-shine" policy with the North that his predecessors before Park Guen-hye adopted. It seems he has to change his course of action since recent events.
2
Mr. Trump's tweets show three things
1. he is incapable of dealing even with an international crisis without taking a narcissistic swipe at his predecessors, 'THEY' did nothing, but the great I will!'
2. his statement about China shows that he has little to no understanding of the complexity of the situation
3. he is no diplomat - one does not get a country like China to co-operate by criticizing their efforts nor is it effective to focus on what they do for us - rather, he should focus on how limiting N. Korea is good for China - AND acknowledge any efforts they have made thus far.
1. he is incapable of dealing even with an international crisis without taking a narcissistic swipe at his predecessors, 'THEY' did nothing, but the great I will!'
2. his statement about China shows that he has little to no understanding of the complexity of the situation
3. he is no diplomat - one does not get a country like China to co-operate by criticizing their efforts nor is it effective to focus on what they do for us - rather, he should focus on how limiting N. Korea is good for China - AND acknowledge any efforts they have made thus far.
11
So what you are saying is he should be doing things the way his predecessors did. Just how did that work out? Bullies only understand strength.
More empty rhetoric from Tillerson that the United States “will never accept a nuclear-armed North Korea" and from Trump that we will no longer allow China to do nothing for us with respect to North Korea's continued nuclear arms and ICBM development. Trump need only confer with the business community to see if restricting trade with China is advisable or even doable.
And so South Korea and Japan are questioning whether the US will be there for them when threatened by a nuclear armed North Korea with missiles capable of reaching the US.
And so South Korea and Japan are questioning whether the US will be there for them when threatened by a nuclear armed North Korea with missiles capable of reaching the US.
3
Someone suggested boycotting Chinese goods. This might actually work to pressure China into controlling N. Korea but, it's not feasible. We already gave up our manufacturing to China and other countries so that the Capitalists could make more profits. That was more important than anything else (including jobs in the USA).
N. Korea, Russia and China have all stated that it would calm things down if we would discontinue war maneuvers off the Korean coast. We won't even consider this even though it's an obvious significant factor for N. Korea being paranoid and moving to protect itself.
N. Korea, Russia and China have all stated that it would calm things down if we would discontinue war maneuvers off the Korean coast. We won't even consider this even though it's an obvious significant factor for N. Korea being paranoid and moving to protect itself.
7
"N. Korea, Russia and China have all stated that it would calm things down if we would discontinue war maneuvers off the Korean coast."
Claiming it would calm things down is a pretense.
They're our enemies, and they're asking us to stop doing some of our military stuff because they know it's for defending ourselves against them. What they're asking is like a bar's most troublesome patron asking that the bouncers not be put on duty as a condition- he says- of his behaving better.
Claiming it would calm things down is a pretense.
They're our enemies, and they're asking us to stop doing some of our military stuff because they know it's for defending ourselves against them. What they're asking is like a bar's most troublesome patron asking that the bouncers not be put on duty as a condition- he says- of his behaving better.
1
The item provoking today’s article on No. Korea is President’s Moon’s request to Washington on arming more forcefully their missals. Moon wishes to see negotiations reopen and the topic of nuclear disarmament but he knows he is not dealing with rational parties on either side.
By upping his nations responses he may hope to lessen the urgency of ‘some response’ from America that could be devastation to the regions current co-existence, buying time until reasonable possibilities might occur for meaningful negotiations between the powers involved. Surely neither Trump nor Tillerson’s states of mind conger up that likelihood currently.
Moon’s proposals do lessen the ‘urgency’ of America’s actions allowing wiser parties e. g. Kissinger and others to be heard. Wish him well.
By upping his nations responses he may hope to lessen the urgency of ‘some response’ from America that could be devastation to the regions current co-existence, buying time until reasonable possibilities might occur for meaningful negotiations between the powers involved. Surely neither Trump nor Tillerson’s states of mind conger up that likelihood currently.
Moon’s proposals do lessen the ‘urgency’ of America’s actions allowing wiser parties e. g. Kissinger and others to be heard. Wish him well.
3
What about USA's anti-missile defenses: satellite reconnaissance, missiles launched from subs, planes, ground, ships), electronic pulses, lasers? According to another NYT article, the NOKO missile took 23 minutes to reach apogee: so, 45 minutes to destroy it. Followed by retaliatory strikes. Any actual attack beyond the 60 years of posturing will lead to the end of Kim's dictatorship.
3
Well, that's 23 minutes to reach apogee when the missile was on a certain path that wasn't towards an actual, tactical target, just a training target (or whatever- training/propaganda target?). Maybe there are a lot of reasons why the tactical trajectory wouldn't be like the same thing, as far as effectiveness of our missile defenses.
And what you often read about missile defenses is that they're not as reliable as you'd like, even though they're modern American stuff. The numbers are actually pretty low.
For these reasons, and even for ones you and I maybe can't think of, why take a risk? These people are at least trying to create the image that they're building missiles to attack South Korea, Japan, or the United States. Lots of people would say they're making no attempt to hide their intentions. Why not just stop 'em ahead of time?
That's what you do in the everyday world all the time. If you see a bad little kid running up to another kid to hit him with a mud pie or a water balloon or whatever, you wouldn't stand there with your arms folded and say, "I cannot. . . do anything about this. . . until the action has taken place. . ." Instead you stop the bad little kid. Etc. If a person was being harassed, and the latest act or harassment stopped 15 hours ago, the person could still call the cops. You don't have to wait for another act to be in progress.
And here, the stakes are much more important. We shouldn't let this go on.
And what you often read about missile defenses is that they're not as reliable as you'd like, even though they're modern American stuff. The numbers are actually pretty low.
For these reasons, and even for ones you and I maybe can't think of, why take a risk? These people are at least trying to create the image that they're building missiles to attack South Korea, Japan, or the United States. Lots of people would say they're making no attempt to hide their intentions. Why not just stop 'em ahead of time?
That's what you do in the everyday world all the time. If you see a bad little kid running up to another kid to hit him with a mud pie or a water balloon or whatever, you wouldn't stand there with your arms folded and say, "I cannot. . . do anything about this. . . until the action has taken place. . ." Instead you stop the bad little kid. Etc. If a person was being harassed, and the latest act or harassment stopped 15 hours ago, the person could still call the cops. You don't have to wait for another act to be in progress.
And here, the stakes are much more important. We shouldn't let this go on.
10
Normalize relations with North Korea... If our morality does not stop us from having normal relations with Saudi Arabia ...it should not stop us from having normal relationships with any nation.
it's the way to bring more freedom to the NK people too... When we normalized relations with China, their leadership was arguably as deplorable as NK's. While China still has human rights problems...and they are not a democracy...it can not be denied that the Chinese people are far freer now than they were 30/40 years ago.
it's the way to bring more freedom to the NK people too... When we normalized relations with China, their leadership was arguably as deplorable as NK's. While China still has human rights problems...and they are not a democracy...it can not be denied that the Chinese people are far freer now than they were 30/40 years ago.
8
North Korea doesn't want to normalize relations with the US. It is currently only in a cease fire state and ending the state of war would weaken Kim's dictatorship and possibly lead to his death.
Either we nuke them now or after they nuke the US. This is real people; not a video game.
11
Why are you sure they will nukes us ? It's not a very realistic assumption . They know it would committing national suicide. Do you know that If we move against NK that we can't stop them from devastating South Korea with in the fist hours of the war. Millions could die. More than 100,000 americans live south korea in range of the NK's artillery...
You are advocating starting a war that would kill millions...on a distant small possibility that NK will want to commit suicide by America's nukes.
it's far more likely that will would never nukes us...unless we actually threaten their existence. Any nation who is facing extinction at the hands of another should be expected to use what ever means at their disposal to survive... right ?
No... this is not a video game, it's you who is acting like it is.
Courage. My fellow American...Courage..
You are advocating starting a war that would kill millions...on a distant small possibility that NK will want to commit suicide by America's nukes.
it's far more likely that will would never nukes us...unless we actually threaten their existence. Any nation who is facing extinction at the hands of another should be expected to use what ever means at their disposal to survive... right ?
No... this is not a video game, it's you who is acting like it is.
Courage. My fellow American...Courage..
27
If DPRK uses their nuclear weapons there will be devastating loss of human life, but it would be a suicide move for the regime. Essentially they are like a fugitive holed up in a building with one hostage. They can keep the police from coming in by threatening to kill the hostage, but they can't actually do anything to the hostage without ensuring that the police will come in. They know that and they know that we know that. Thus they are incapable of extracting any kind of concessions with their weapons. They can and will continue to rattle sabers and make demands, but if we refuse to give in to their demands they won't kill the hostage.
So really, nothing has changed from the status quo that has been maintained since the end of the Korean War. The window for going into North Korea and effecting a regime change has been closed for years now. The only thing we can do now is continue to starve them out by tightening sanctions and working to get more partners on board to help enforce them.
So really, nothing has changed from the status quo that has been maintained since the end of the Korean War. The window for going into North Korea and effecting a regime change has been closed for years now. The only thing we can do now is continue to starve them out by tightening sanctions and working to get more partners on board to help enforce them.
10
Or open negotiations again; is that so terrifying? What is with the American mind that offering concessions is viewed as less attractive that killing hundreds of thousands of people. Kim has effectively raised his bargaining power, but what he wishes is not is security for disarmament. No profit for the arms dealers how sad. They will find other markets, worry not.
Russia, just like China, is helping to keep the North Korean economy going. Remember Russia? President Trump's best friend? When is the media going to cover this news?
14
I'm sure Kim is watching us twist Trump in the wind. All he's doing is help us blow.
1
North Korea is like an annoying gnat buzzing around on the world stage. It is concerning that they may be close to developing a nuclear weapon that could reach the United States.
But why would North Korea ever use it? It would be national suicide for their country. By contrast, Russia and China could both destroy the United States with nuclear weapons. We have no expectations or fear that either would ever do such a thing.
We lived under the threat of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) for 44 years under the Cold War. The Soviet Union was a real existential threat to the United States; North Korea is not. Our response to any attack from them would be asymmetric, and they understand this.
I fail to understand why we give North Korea any credence as more than a nuisance on the international stage. What do they want? Throw them some peanuts, or step on them with China's help, or just ignore them. They are ultimately of no consequence to the United States.
But why would North Korea ever use it? It would be national suicide for their country. By contrast, Russia and China could both destroy the United States with nuclear weapons. We have no expectations or fear that either would ever do such a thing.
We lived under the threat of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) for 44 years under the Cold War. The Soviet Union was a real existential threat to the United States; North Korea is not. Our response to any attack from them would be asymmetric, and they understand this.
I fail to understand why we give North Korea any credence as more than a nuisance on the international stage. What do they want? Throw them some peanuts, or step on them with China's help, or just ignore them. They are ultimately of no consequence to the United States.
14
"...if flattened out over the Pacific, could easily reach Los Angeles and perhaps as far as Chicago and New York, though its accuracy is in doubt."
When you're firing nuclear missiles, as long as it lands somewhere "in the vicinity of" accuracy isn't terribly important.
When you're firing nuclear missiles, as long as it lands somewhere "in the vicinity of" accuracy isn't terribly important.
4
So, Will the U.S. give or already have given the south the WMD?
1
hmm. 2n amendment for everyone! we win when corporations sell weapons to kill and make lives miserable. weapons developed with tax dollars and nothing in return.
2
Yes, this could be a huuuuge problem.......
1
Given what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan, North Korea is rightfully concerned about defending its borders against American aggression. Its leadership may not fulfil Western norms of democracy but at least it is not as appalling as the current Trump regime. The only way to lessen tension is for the US to dismantle THAAD and withdraw its troops from the Korean Peninsula.
3
Your comment would make some sense IF there were anyone on Earth who would want one square inch of North Korea.
4
Your reasoning is obviously flawed.
America helps defend the ROK against the almost constant threats issued by the DRPK. The DPRK -still- wants to win their war – America has only offered a defense to their threats.
Taking out a missile defense system and leaving South Korea to deal with a belligerent, nuclear-armed threat is not a plan I would want to live with.
America helps defend the ROK against the almost constant threats issued by the DRPK. The DPRK -still- wants to win their war – America has only offered a defense to their threats.
Taking out a missile defense system and leaving South Korea to deal with a belligerent, nuclear-armed threat is not a plan I would want to live with.
Just as Russia is using Syria to create a crisis that spills across Europe, China is using Morth Korea to destabilize Asia. Both of these so-called country-governments are really run by mafia-oligarchies that are not accountable to anyone, neither their own citizens nor global organizations such as the UN.
China WANTs North Korea to makes these misses -- it is a lot of baloney that "there is nothing they can do."
We must impose 100 percent tariffs on all China goods ASAP and jam all electronics in North Korea now-- until these nukes and the Bad Boy are gone.
China WANTs North Korea to makes these misses -- it is a lot of baloney that "there is nothing they can do."
We must impose 100 percent tariffs on all China goods ASAP and jam all electronics in North Korea now-- until these nukes and the Bad Boy are gone.
6
Which is why telling China that if you don't "leash your dog", and right quick, expect South Korea to place a whole lot of missles aiming at NK. Oh, and pointing in the direction of China.
Nothing like a little incentive to get some cooperation.
Nothing like a little incentive to get some cooperation.
2
Just replace the word Russia with word America and you might be nearer the truth. U.S who's first, The planet is second and everyone else is third or lower. U.S is the only country saying that! so who is the real risk to humanity and the planet? U.S. or everyone else? America has used more than few countries to meet its secret agenda with lies and criminal actions. WMD and George W Bushs conviction involving war crimes in 2011 by a Kuala lampor high court. Why do you think Bush NEVER leaves American soil. Because he might get arrested if he goes to the wrong country. https://www.foreignpolicyjournal.com/2012/05/12/bush-convicted-of-war-cr... http://www.esquire.com/news-politics/politics/news/a35397/bush-cheney-wa... http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-791925 Just a few of many links are out there.
1
China is using North Korea to keep South Korea unsettled. It is using Pakistan to keep India unsettled. China reinforces its connections with NK and Pakistan and uses them as geo-political leverages to negotiate with South Korea and India respectively.
A united Korea - probably aligned to the US - is not in Chinese interests. The pot has to keep boiling, but not spill over. And Trump seems to be the destined Spillover Man of history.
A united Korea - probably aligned to the US - is not in Chinese interests. The pot has to keep boiling, but not spill over. And Trump seems to be the destined Spillover Man of history.
South Korea should acquire nuclear weapons.
The U.S. nuclear umbrella is now leaky. If the DPRK attacks South Korea, they might be able to prevent a U.S. response by threatening a nuclear/EMP attack on the U.S. itself. Can South Korea be sure that any U.S. president would incur that risk?
We needn’t worry about proliferation. South Korea is a fairly mature democracy and close ally that will not share any nuclear technology. Moreover, the DPRK’s successful use of nuclear weapons to neutralize the U.S. will now usher in a new era of nuclear proliferation in any case. In fact, nuclear weapons and technology may become a lucrative export product for North Korea.
In addition to South Korea, Japan and Taiwan might as well go nuclear too, evening the playing field with China’s growing military forces.
The U.S. nuclear umbrella is now leaky. If the DPRK attacks South Korea, they might be able to prevent a U.S. response by threatening a nuclear/EMP attack on the U.S. itself. Can South Korea be sure that any U.S. president would incur that risk?
We needn’t worry about proliferation. South Korea is a fairly mature democracy and close ally that will not share any nuclear technology. Moreover, the DPRK’s successful use of nuclear weapons to neutralize the U.S. will now usher in a new era of nuclear proliferation in any case. In fact, nuclear weapons and technology may become a lucrative export product for North Korea.
In addition to South Korea, Japan and Taiwan might as well go nuclear too, evening the playing field with China’s growing military forces.
11
As far as proliferation, that ship has sailed.
4
Well South Korea needs to look like they are doing something to defend themselves though all of them and the whole world knows that the DPRK Ballistic Missiles and Nuclear Weapons cannot and would not be used on them and are not designed for them. Its sole purpose is to ensure the regimes survival from our forces. Last test of the missile was designed to send a message that they have the capability to strike at the heart of America.
Most of us have known for a while that there is no military option Vis a Vis DPRK – we have at least 300,000 of our soldiers in their range right in their neighborhood. It is possible that he had to let President Trump know that what he is being told as part of his DIR is not ‘fake news’ but it is real. I hope our Military can devise a plan to handle the situation without mass casualties.
I hope the republicans and the President would not behave how they did with ACA and its repeal and replace stint. We cannot be thin skinned in international Diplomacy. It is not a construction contract negotiation, it mostly is a matter of life and death; and that too sometimes millions.
PEACE is the answer.
Most of us have known for a while that there is no military option Vis a Vis DPRK – we have at least 300,000 of our soldiers in their range right in their neighborhood. It is possible that he had to let President Trump know that what he is being told as part of his DIR is not ‘fake news’ but it is real. I hope our Military can devise a plan to handle the situation without mass casualties.
I hope the republicans and the President would not behave how they did with ACA and its repeal and replace stint. We cannot be thin skinned in international Diplomacy. It is not a construction contract negotiation, it mostly is a matter of life and death; and that too sometimes millions.
PEACE is the answer.
1
Wizarat your so called peace through the last 8 years of do nothing Obama is exactly what got us here to this point. Peace is only achieved through strength and if you don't know that then you know nothing of history. I say give South Korea, Japan both nuclear and advanced missile defense systems and put the DPRK on notice any attack and it becomes a giant glass plate for the next 1000 years.
4
So if you close your eyes, tap your heels together three times, and wish for peace, that is guaranteed? Who knew?
4
Why don't we just tell them we want peace and I am sure that will solve the problem. FYI it is not 300,000, it is closer to 60,000. Do any of you out there understand that our troops in S. Korea are not there to defend them? Does anyone remember that we are still at war with N. Korea? They are there to deter N. Korea from breaking the armistice. S. Korea has a larger Army that the US and an overall military strength ranked 11th in the world. N Korea is 25. Coalition with Japan who is even stronger (7th) and Taiwan who is also stronger (19) and North Korea could not survive a war. Now getting S. Korea to team up with Japan (they still hate each other) would be like Hillary and Donald getting together but if it meant stopping N. Korea they would do it. If China comes in the US has no choice and Game Over. Our combined forces would be 3x theirs.
Trump is not afraid to face down China by giving S. Korea and Japan nukes. China will replace Kim before that happens.
Trump is not afraid to face down China by giving S. Korea and Japan nukes. China will replace Kim before that happens.
3
I was not previously aware that there was any sort or agreement between us and S. Korea with regards military limitations. It took me a wile to even find any information about it.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korea_Ballistic_Missile_Range_Guidel...
It seem strange that we would subject a military ally to that. Whatever political climate existed in S. Korea in 1979 is no longer the situation. I think we should just rip up the restrictions. We have no right to impose that on a modern democracy.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korea_Ballistic_Missile_Range_Guidel...
It seem strange that we would subject a military ally to that. Whatever political climate existed in S. Korea in 1979 is no longer the situation. I think we should just rip up the restrictions. We have no right to impose that on a modern democracy.
9
As a citizen from S. Korea, I can vouch that the relationship is.... complicated. The U.S has 'mostly' supported S.Korea since WWII, and the U.S often takes it for granted.
2
Oops. The NYT comment system needs a feature to let us fix typos.
2
South Korea was about at its post-war right wing peak in 1979 and was politically unstable. The President (who had been running the military junta since '61) was assassinated in 1979. Letting the Koreans go off the reservation with ballistic missiles would have been very dangerous, and it was still the Cold War. It's no joke to say that playing with missiles in Korea was a little like playing with global armageddon at that point.
And apparently will be like that again very soon.
And apparently will be like that again very soon.
1
The U.S. should start talks with Japan about tweaking their constitution to allow for a more robust military along with talks strengthening ties between our two militaries. This is a no-brainer IMO at this point. I don't think anyone ever anticipated asking Japan to play a game of duo Russian Roulette (lobbing ICBMs at them/over them without any real care of what Japan thinks about it) with N. Korea; where N. Korea never has to take a turn. Japan having a capable conventional force could be a definitive missing piece here, one that could have a lot of up-side for the US. There are downsides too of course but sheesh, they're not as bad as what we have right now.
And all if can be laid at the feet of the Chinese as a gift for letting things get this far; because surely that would like to see a capable Japanese military force in the region :)
And all if can be laid at the feet of the Chinese as a gift for letting things get this far; because surely that would like to see a capable Japanese military force in the region :)
7
You might be surprised to know that Japan has the 7th strongest military in the world. N. Korea is 25. I am with you, let the Dogs Out and if they ask who, tell them we did it.
1
Be careful with that Pandora's box. I'm all for having a Japan with a more robust military, but, like the Germans in Europe, I wouldn't want to see that military be too strong. We don't want to give these people (the Germans and the Japanese) any ideas. Does no one remember what happened the last Japan there was a militarily strong Japan?
I think everyone understands the past concerning Japan/Germany, but at some point we have to move forward, allowing them to defend themselves against nuclear lunatics; not to mention China's march ( militarily/economically) towards regional dominance. The Japanese have bent over backwards to make amends for the past. They've been a faithful ally of the U.S. ever since the end of WWII. Let them defend themselves. Good grief, we mark every foot a NK ICBM can reach the US mainland but don't think much about how fast a couple semi-low-tech theater grade nuclear missiles could reach Tokyo..probably faster than I wrote this reply.
We have an American public that laps up junk information if it's about a bogeyman like a good brown dog laps up spilled beer. We have endless junk information driven by clickbait press. We have incredibly expensive over the top defense expenditures in S. Korea, for absolutely no gain to any American citizen outside business interests. What is wrong with this process? Everything.
Let the South Koreans defend themselves. They can get a loan from Japan, (wouldn't that be beautifully ironic?) Get the US OUT of South Korea, and give the North no reason to be belligerent. It is absolutely insane from every point of view to have a huge US military stationed in Southeast Asia.
America does not have a South Korea problem. It has an American citizen problem, whereby our citizens allow themselves to be led around by the nose to pay attention to worthless stories about invented enemies like Russia or SK while Rome burns here at home.
Let the South Koreans defend themselves. They can get a loan from Japan, (wouldn't that be beautifully ironic?) Get the US OUT of South Korea, and give the North no reason to be belligerent. It is absolutely insane from every point of view to have a huge US military stationed in Southeast Asia.
America does not have a South Korea problem. It has an American citizen problem, whereby our citizens allow themselves to be led around by the nose to pay attention to worthless stories about invented enemies like Russia or SK while Rome burns here at home.
10
nice try, where are you from?
2
I didn't hear about any 'invented enemies' concerning SK. I also think it's oddly trumplike to disregard an ally in it's time of need.
2
Rome is burning at home precisely because the deplorables, aided and abetted by Putin, managed to seat Nero in the White House. Russia is not the invented enemy. Only an enemy of our county would have worked to put someone like Trump in our White House.
South Korea is not even considered an enemy, invented or otherwise.
South Korea is not even considered an enemy, invented or otherwise.
Allowing South Korea to build up to payload may be the best way to pressure China to stop North Korea.
3
I for one, will avoid all Chinese made products whenever possible. This is their creation, their dog on a leash. It wouldn't hurt if we just left the penninsula, make the deal Donald. We leave, the Chinese kill off the regime.
4
A note: this article gives minor coverage to the major hurdle of achieving reentry technology for the NK warheads. Having worked the materials science issues for reentry for 20 years, I can point out that this development is a major task. Heat inputs to a weapon surface are well more than 1000 times the output of a household oven and surface temperatures reach in excess of 3000F. Development work is particularly daunting because ground test facilities to demonstrate appropriate materials are huge and flight testing is an extremely expensive route.
Now if China or Russia deliver fabricated heatshields, it would shortcut a time consuming problem, but that should be a point of negotiations between the US and China and Russia.
Now if China or Russia deliver fabricated heatshields, it would shortcut a time consuming problem, but that should be a point of negotiations between the US and China and Russia.
5
As long as we have trips in South Korea, the north would not attack. Once the North could effectively threaten the US with an attack, the Seoul government would be on their own. This has been their strategy all along. The North exploded thei first nuclear device in 2006. It is 11 years too late for action.
2
Test driving Iran's latest technology for them so as to keep up the charade that they are compiling with President Obama's Iran nuclear non-proliferation deal? Guess we learned nothing from President Clinton's deal with North Korea. The end game is that China does not want us in SE Asia, and they have no reason to stop North Korea until we agree to let them be the region's power center. Once we do that, they will step in and bring peace to the area.
1
And that would be the END of life as the South Korean know it.
1
If we are not prepared to take military action against NK and China is not interested in assisting us, why not give up. Let's end the war. Sign an agreement to end the war, withdraw our troops and offer NC support in whatever form they need it in exchange for an end to both nuclear and ICBM development and agree that one Korea is impossible.
How did that approach work out for Chamberlan? Are you by any chance French?
1
Stop the incessant blaming of the situation on President Trump. It was an ugly situation long long before he got into office, it's just nonstop childishness to blame it on him.
He and his staff are working to understand and consistantly monitor the situation, they are working hard to find answers. If you were suddenly president of the United States and you had been a businessman first, you would have a lag time as you strived to get up to speed on all of the protocols.
Stop the very foolish attacks on the WhiteHouse and just let them do their jobs. Don't fool yourself into thinking that you could mysteriously do a better job. You couldn't.
He and his staff are working to understand and consistantly monitor the situation, they are working hard to find answers. If you were suddenly president of the United States and you had been a businessman first, you would have a lag time as you strived to get up to speed on all of the protocols.
Stop the very foolish attacks on the WhiteHouse and just let them do their jobs. Don't fool yourself into thinking that you could mysteriously do a better job. You couldn't.
8
I know many people who would do an astoundingly better job than President Trump. At the very least, I would stop wasting my time with moronic tweets, and stop using up the taxpayer's money for personal trips. Then I'd work to 'fix' Obamacare, with help from the left and the right. Then I'd concern myself with foreign issues, bringing us back into the Paris Agreement, and putting stress on China to stop supplying N.K with resources.
11
He didn't become suddenly president or did I sleep thru an election ? As far as those in the WH , doing their jobs , that's debatable since they can't stop stabbing each other in the back ! Not trying to do their jobs , just saying....
3
" If you were suddenly president of the United States and you had been a businessman first, you would have a lag time as you strived [sic] to get up to speed on all of the protocols."
Precisely why such an unprepared person should never have been elected in the first place.
Letting the White House "do their job" means letting Trump and his merry band of swamp creatures destroy everything in America and much outside of it. And resistance to this wanton destruction, even if you consider it an "foolish attack," is an act of the highest patriotism and must be encouraged and supported. Trump and his minions have already done plenty of damage.
Precisely why such an unprepared person should never have been elected in the first place.
Letting the White House "do their job" means letting Trump and his merry band of swamp creatures destroy everything in America and much outside of it. And resistance to this wanton destruction, even if you consider it an "foolish attack," is an act of the highest patriotism and must be encouraged and supported. Trump and his minions have already done plenty of damage.
Are we really unable to perceive alternatives to force, threats of violence, and selling more weapons of mass destruction?
We will wait patiently for your lost of options - ones that will work.
4
As the article points out, North Korea's threats are intended to prevent the US from aiding its allies in Asia. That is primarily the objective of China, not North Korea. The Chinese hope to accomplish the same thing Japan tried to achieve by bombing Pearl Harbor, but without the risks of an actual war. The most likely outcome is a nuclear Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan since every country near China is under threat of China's territorial aggression.
It will be interesting to see whether China starts another war with India now that that China has tried to grab more territory in one of India's neighbors south of Tibet and India has intervened. India is nuclear armed now so the risks of a nuclear war are increasing.
It will be interesting to see whether China starts another war with India now that that China has tried to grab more territory in one of India's neighbors south of Tibet and India has intervened. India is nuclear armed now so the risks of a nuclear war are increasing.
22
India has been nuclear armed for 43 years.
This is indeed a really difficult problem. It's made all the more difficult by our country lacking the presidential leadership fit to understand, much less address, the complicated challenges it presents. I would hope that some combination of carrots and sticks for China - including our giving in on some of its foreign policy priorities - might move it to pressure North Korea to stop developing an intercontinental nuclear capability. But I also would think that such options have been tried by three U.S. administrations by now.
We may well be left, then, with an absolutely horrible choice: 1) Tolerate North Korea's imminent ability to nuke us or 2) decimate its capabilities, at the price of a regional war that would take at least tens of thousands of South Korean, Japanese and U.S. (military base personnel) lives.
We may well be left, then, with an absolutely horrible choice: 1) Tolerate North Korea's imminent ability to nuke us or 2) decimate its capabilities, at the price of a regional war that would take at least tens of thousands of South Korean, Japanese and U.S. (military base personnel) lives.
1
Agreed. The security risks of allowing the DPRK to have nuclear capability is enormous - particularly if, as mentioned in the article, Kim decides to sell some of his nuclear capability to irrational actors who'd be willing to use it, or if Kim decides to escalate militarily in expelling U.S. forces from the peninsula and pushing towards reunification.
The alternative, of course, most assuredly costs many thousands of civilian lives, destroys ROK (and possibly Japanese) infrastructure that the U.S. values economically, and puts our troops into some of the worst fighting conditions they've been in since WW2 and the first Korean War. We could take out DPRK WMD capability and liberate the Koreans from the Kim family, but at tremendous cost.
The alternative, of course, most assuredly costs many thousands of civilian lives, destroys ROK (and possibly Japanese) infrastructure that the U.S. values economically, and puts our troops into some of the worst fighting conditions they've been in since WW2 and the first Korean War. We could take out DPRK WMD capability and liberate the Koreans from the Kim family, but at tremendous cost.
Don't worry! Trump will publicly call Kim Jong-un a loser and Kim will be so devastated by this that he'll give up his entire missile program.
32
Better to say ' you are beleaguered'. Kim will panic and order to fire all remaining missiles to nowhere.
Why are we buying "made in China" when they won't reign in their "mad dog" client?
If the people (everyone threatened by the mad dog) stopped buying Chinese goods, the Chinese government would have 500 million out-of-work Chinese demanding change. It would be better for them to stifle NK now.
If the people (everyone threatened by the mad dog) stopped buying Chinese goods, the Chinese government would have 500 million out-of-work Chinese demanding change. It would be better for them to stifle NK now.
38
But everything is made in that region. Semiconductors, cars, ships..it would be impossible for us in the West to enjoy our wealth without Asian industry. The UK, the US and much of Europe can no longer provide the goods that Asia can. Also, the area is full of tension, South Koreans want unity with the North, there is joint hatred of Japan, China is feared because their buying power can take jobs from anywhere. They are in the driving seat now.
1
If PRC products are boycotted, that would create a huge economic boom and inflation in places like South Korean and Taiwan (for relatively advanced products) and Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and India for other products. Apple assemblers will move to the US for the first time. There is no need, however, to go straight to economic divorce. We can just decline to share the bed first.
2
Obvious problem: arming S Korea requires protection of it's independence from N Korea. Major commitment, to assure that our weapons don't fall into N Korean hands. A coherent international policy requires balancing of diplomatic, economic, and military/intel capabilities and alliances. The current know-nothing Administration has been undermining US strategic defensive capabilities - with a hobbyist mindset,evoking the effete Frederick of Prussia's collection tall soldiers who were not trained to fight. i.e. a full-press approach to defense is the most effective, and that includes good management of international relations - not alienation of important allies, such as Germany and Australia (which has significant radar capability).
Meanwhile, in the face of North Korea's growing, possibly existential, threat to the United States, the President of that same threatened country occupies himself with tweets that undermine his own Attorney-General, abruptly cancel transgender military service, deride the Senate's filibuster rule, and trash the ostensible "treason" of three GOP senators and upbraid the nation's FAKE NEWS.
He shames himself with lewd insinuations and salacious insults before the Boy Scouts, and puts in a plug for prejudicial police brutality. He fires his Chief of Staff and hires a public vulgarian (no, that's not a country) as his Director of Communications.
Our toddler tenant of the Oval office is one busy little fellow. Who has time for existential threats?
He shames himself with lewd insinuations and salacious insults before the Boy Scouts, and puts in a plug for prejudicial police brutality. He fires his Chief of Staff and hires a public vulgarian (no, that's not a country) as his Director of Communications.
Our toddler tenant of the Oval office is one busy little fellow. Who has time for existential threats?
21
Give up the foolish ad hominem rants. They accomplish nothing. You and I have no idea what is being dicussed by the CIC and those charged with the responsibility of advising him on military and national security matters, nor do any of the Times pundits...
2
For once, I agree with the ones like you. This isn't a time to bash the President for whatever good or bad he has done. This is the time to make important decisions, not concerning whatever problems we may have with the President.
1
Unkown land , the problem is he rarely listens to his advisers and for a little mouth it's kinda big , not to mention the flying thumbs , known fact , evident by tweets and public appearances.
1
We have to defend ourselves.
Let 'em fly. Whatever is the best military response to North Korea, that's what we need.
China and North Korea are both bad, dangerous, anti-American nations. And especially given the climate change problems, there's not enough room for all of us.
That's the real situation, yet that the media isn't discussing. China and North Korea are bad for America, and even certainly bad for the world. Knock 'em out.
Let 'em fly. Whatever is the best military response to North Korea, that's what we need.
China and North Korea are both bad, dangerous, anti-American nations. And especially given the climate change problems, there's not enough room for all of us.
That's the real situation, yet that the media isn't discussing. China and North Korea are bad for America, and even certainly bad for the world. Knock 'em out.
2
Might be time to bracket Pyongyang's border with 4 ICBMs, hitting the four points of the compass with precision. Filled with noodles made in China.
This seems frightening to me, but China will not allow anything to happen to their desire to dominate Asian economies. Their bizarro neighbor could do just that by rattling their tiny saber too much. *45 is equally bizarro as NK and has no pull with any nation in Asia already. We are weak because of *45.
We must allow China to lead on this issue. Tie favored nation status to China with North Korea as the condition and the bizarro neighbor will be tamed.
We must allow China to lead on this issue. Tie favored nation status to China with North Korea as the condition and the bizarro neighbor will be tamed.
And to think the USA could have had Hillary Clinton at the helm, with her years of foreign policy experience, her strategic and diplomatic manner, and her steadiness under pressure.
Sounds rather idyllic now, doesn't it?
Sounds rather idyllic now, doesn't it?
78
No.
Unfortunately, the US needed Trump to be President. Teach us a lesson about not voting and eating oversimplified and inaccurate rhetoric. Besides the US has very little influence with North Korea so it was good South Korea took the lead and gave China a huge incentive to lean hard on the North. Hope it works for both our sakes. Seriously, North Korea could aim for us and hit you.
Who knows, Trump may be the reason we actually get universal healthcare like the rest of the industrialized world. Sort of like the football player who scores a touchdown on the wrong goal.
Who knows, Trump may be the reason we actually get universal healthcare like the rest of the industrialized world. Sort of like the football player who scores a touchdown on the wrong goal.
Forget nukes. Bomb N Korea with food, sneakers, and K Pop. Use the tools of capitalism to win this war.
15
An unhinged national leader to the west, and another unhinged national leader to the east.
It's all very depressing.
It's all very depressing.
3
Re the "buildup".....ACCIDENTS CAN HAPPEN!.
1
Every day it seems, North Korea insists that its missiles could hit major American cities. Has anybody told North Korea that the United States has thousands of missiles which could vaporize every major North Korean city, and probably most villages, many times over. When it is time to put cards on the table, we need to show our hands also.....
4
There is no point in a military buildup other than one that could effectively shoot down most of the N. Korean missiles, otherwise, if even just one gets through to Seoul or Tokyo or a US city, then there will be massive loss of life and utter destruction. Too high a cost. The likelihood is that many would get through, with even more devastating losses. The conventional weapons threat to Seoul would also result in major loss of life and infrastructure.
The nuclear deterrence is already in place because N. Korea knows that their entire country, and more importantly to those concerned, the leadership and party would be obliterated.
As with every other nuclear power, we have to live with the potential threat, but one only realized by the actions of a madman. We could of course pursue the first-strike option and attempt to take out everything, but that is not only immoral, it is foolish because some nuclear response would get through either locally or long-range barring major improvements in technology.
The madman possibility always exists, but you have to think that any developed country has a leadership structure that has some safeguards in place against a single person's mad actions.
So, we live with the threat and offer big carrots and even bigger sticks and hope that humans are not that stupid.
The nuclear deterrence is already in place because N. Korea knows that their entire country, and more importantly to those concerned, the leadership and party would be obliterated.
As with every other nuclear power, we have to live with the potential threat, but one only realized by the actions of a madman. We could of course pursue the first-strike option and attempt to take out everything, but that is not only immoral, it is foolish because some nuclear response would get through either locally or long-range barring major improvements in technology.
The madman possibility always exists, but you have to think that any developed country has a leadership structure that has some safeguards in place against a single person's mad actions.
So, we live with the threat and offer big carrots and even bigger sticks and hope that humans are not that stupid.
6
Do you have some "inside information" about Kim's missile numbers and capacity to deliver warheads? No offense,but my guess is that you don't. Remember when the media touted Iraq's Republican Guard as perhaps the greatest force to ever bear arms since the best days of Rome's Legions? Take your choice: kick the can down the road or put an end to the threat once and for all.
1
MA: I'm not against a defensive missile capability, but unless it is highly effective, there is a big risk of missing one or a few or many depending on how many they have, with devastating consequences once their capability is fully developed. Missile delivery is not the only option for local. They could probably take out Seoul easily without ICBMs even if we were to strike first unless you incinerated everything. That will never happen.
As I said above, in my opinion, a first-strike is an immoral choice. We don't know that they would ever strike first, but the smart choice would be not to given that they know they would be obliterated. Their capability is a bargaining tool and a deterrent against being attacked.
There are other countries now and in the future who could threaten us with nuclear attack. Are we to take them out first? MAD is a pretty effective deterrent.
As I said above, in my opinion, a first-strike is an immoral choice. We don't know that they would ever strike first, but the smart choice would be not to given that they know they would be obliterated. Their capability is a bargaining tool and a deterrent against being attacked.
There are other countries now and in the future who could threaten us with nuclear attack. Are we to take them out first? MAD is a pretty effective deterrent.
It might help détente if the Departments of State and Defense spoke to one another and not operate in a vacuum. It might help if the President wasn't so wrapped up in his dysfunctional White House and spend a little time with his National Security Council (NSC). It might help if the Republican Congress didn't just waste 7 months trying to take away healthcare from 20 million fellow citizens and focus on something more threatening. It might help if the President stopped his forewarning to cancel the nuclear agreement with Iran. It might help if Secretary Tillerson picked up the phone and said to China, we need to talk, like right away, better yet I’m on my way over to meet with you. It might help if the President called up the Presidents of South Korea and Japan and give them ironclad assurance that we will defend them.
Unfortunately it’s just wishful thinking on my part. Anybody see a light at the end of this tunnel yet? I don’t!
Unfortunately it’s just wishful thinking on my part. Anybody see a light at the end of this tunnel yet? I don’t!
90
It is a freight train and you are seeing it because you are in the left tunnel which means you are on the wrong track!
cherrylog754 -- problem is we really don't HAVE a state department any more! Nor do we have a real president who would listen to reasoned, experienced voices from the NSC and is busy making sure that those pesky transgenders aren't in view. Kushner, the closest thing Trump has for an advisor, well....nothing more really needs to be said about him. The GOP is on a roll trying to REPEAL REPEAL REPEAL so they can say they totally succeeded in putting the brakes on Obama, and the rest of our country's top cabinet members are busy trying to tear the agencies they are the heads of apart. I think the 63 "majority" million who voted for Trump to shake things up, and those record breaking crowds who were were at his inauguration, have trampled out whatever light there might have been. But, optimist that I am, I am hoping that there are saner heads somewhere who will either impeach or use the 25th Amendment, and that that voters who want to see our world survive and prosper will fight every obstacle and arrive en masse at the polls in 2018 --- if we are all still around by then.
If the North Koreans continue to develop nuclear warhead technology at their current rapid pace (particularly miniaturizing bombs) they won't have to worry about reaching US cities via ICBM's. Terrorists will be able to transport them by road or rail into American urban population centers and detonate them without any advance warning or US opportunity to detect and destroy them at a distance.
3
North Korea is almost completely funded by China. North Korea is China's NUCLEAR MILITARY BASE. PERIOD END.
4
Maybe Mr. Moon is thinking along the lines of mutual deterrence assured by mutual destruction . Remember Oppenheimers Quote from the Bhagavad-Gita " Now I have become death , the destroyer of worlds " Kim Jung Un is a mad man and don't think he cares at all , he will continue to threaten to throw the world into a nuclear conflagration , very concerning , and more so because we have our own kind of crazy and unstable going on.
2
I have seen a lot of comments on Times articles about the NK missile launch calling for a preemptive strike to eliminate North Korea's nuclear capabilities. I really think this is a dangerous way of thinking. The window for a preemptive strike has closed; there is nothing left to preempt. North Korea probably has nuclear-capable ICBMs. Therefore, anyone proposing an attack is proposing nuclear war - not preventative war - whether they realize it or not.
8
I do not think that anyone wants a preemptive strike, we want an overwhelming attack that utterly destroys N.Korea's military and annihilates the current regime and its supporters. Our conventional weapons are so accurate these days, and can be delivered by so many different platforms (e.g: swarms of Predator drones), that the N. Koreans will never recover.
Sebastian**** not just nuclear, but chemical weapons also.. long range style.
Orange, NJ
Orange, NJ
1
So is this the first step to a nuclear armed South Korea?
1
Looks that way
I thought Trump had a plan for this..... and ISIS, and immigration, and infrastructure, and "amazing" and "cheap" healthcare,...... impeach now before sends us into WWIII....... so out his league he is the laughingstock of the serious world..... EMBARRASSING and dangerous.
3
Where is North Korea getting all of this expertise suddenly in building these ICBMs? China, Russia?
Pakistan and India believe it or not..
Looks like it may be Pakistan and Iran.
1
North Korea has succeeded in slapping away the outreached hand of President Moon, no doubt in an attempt to wring more concessions from the South. The U.S must continue to stand by its allies in South Korea, while continuing to work with China in an attempt to come to some sort of accommodation with the North. It's a frustrating game, because China has its own row to hoe, as they used to say, but the alternative is far worse. It's important to remember that we do still have time on our side, and no one knows how much time remains for the North Korean regime.
1
I wonder if there might exist a backchannel with China that might be working on a way out of this impasse. It would involve a grand bargain whereby perhaps the US would agree to a phased withdrawal with international guarantees, while the Kim family would agree to go into exile in China, and the two Koreas would agree to phased reunification, with both Koreas being allowed to retain their military capabilities in the interim.
China and the DPRK could be incentivized to consider this approach if we began a process pointing toward the nuclearization of Japan and South Korea. This would lead China and the DPRK to realize that they have skin in the game.
China and the DPRK could be incentivized to consider this approach if we began a process pointing toward the nuclearization of Japan and South Korea. This would lead China and the DPRK to realize that they have skin in the game.
2
Once the A-bomb was let out of the box by the United States, the only logic regarding nuclear weapons was and continues to be, mutual deterrence, short of eliminating nukes entirely. So what is all this talk about increasing missile defense systems and advanced missile capabilities? Does anyone believe nuclear war is survivable to any meaningful degree?
2
I see I am writing one of the earlier comments. So I'll make a prediction. By the end of the day, the most popular posts on this article will blame Trump for the existential threat posed by North Korea. The devil made Mr. Kim do it.
Wanna bet I'm right ?
Wanna bet I'm right ?
1
July 29, 2017
This is the making for the greatest Trump warrior event since:
June 30 1950 Truman & advisers agree to give MacArthur two divisions.
jja Manhattan, N.Y.
This is the making for the greatest Trump warrior event since:
June 30 1950 Truman & advisers agree to give MacArthur two divisions.
jja Manhattan, N.Y.
1
I don't think why we should care at all about that tiny country and risk a conflict.
They are just bragging, they are not suicidal to actually attack the U.S.
It's preposterous to insinuate such scenario.
We should abandon the One Korea policy and task China with reigning them in.
They are just bragging, they are not suicidal to actually attack the U.S.
It's preposterous to insinuate such scenario.
We should abandon the One Korea policy and task China with reigning them in.
1
South Korea should purchase missiles from us. We buy their TVs and cars, they should buy our missiles and associated hardware.
1
Have we learned nothing from Hiroshima?
World leaders are playing with fire, but it will be the regular citizens like you and me that will get burned and poisoned, while they are safe in their semi-secret underground hideouts.
No one mentions why the Kim family hate us so much. Lest we forget, it was us who bombed their land to smithereens some decades ago. Wouldn't you be angry too? Angry, and vengeful.
In my opinion, the more nukes there are and the more far-flung, the greater the risk of a single loose nuke or a first strike, or even more likely a first accident.
You may think health care costs a lot now, just wait until we are all breathing and drinking radioactive isotopes for a few months. The present day will be like heaven in comparison.
And who started all this nuclear business? Who was the first country to develop, test, and deploy atomic bombs, setting off the global nuclear arms race? Was it the God-fearing, immigrant-welcoming sons of the American Dream? Yes it was.
It seems to me, one of the biggest problems with racism is that it makes it impossible to enjoy peace with other races. As a small child, my parents explained to me that we could not eat at a Chinese restaurant because Chinese people were not Christians. How foolish that sounds today, whether it was true or not.
Looks like it might be extremely difficult to wipe out racism in this and other countries. But until we do, the chances of lasting peace may be remote.
World leaders are playing with fire, but it will be the regular citizens like you and me that will get burned and poisoned, while they are safe in their semi-secret underground hideouts.
No one mentions why the Kim family hate us so much. Lest we forget, it was us who bombed their land to smithereens some decades ago. Wouldn't you be angry too? Angry, and vengeful.
In my opinion, the more nukes there are and the more far-flung, the greater the risk of a single loose nuke or a first strike, or even more likely a first accident.
You may think health care costs a lot now, just wait until we are all breathing and drinking radioactive isotopes for a few months. The present day will be like heaven in comparison.
And who started all this nuclear business? Who was the first country to develop, test, and deploy atomic bombs, setting off the global nuclear arms race? Was it the God-fearing, immigrant-welcoming sons of the American Dream? Yes it was.
It seems to me, one of the biggest problems with racism is that it makes it impossible to enjoy peace with other races. As a small child, my parents explained to me that we could not eat at a Chinese restaurant because Chinese people were not Christians. How foolish that sounds today, whether it was true or not.
Looks like it might be extremely difficult to wipe out racism in this and other countries. But until we do, the chances of lasting peace may be remote.
"No one mentions why the Kim family hate us so much. Lest we forget, it was us who bombed their land to smithereens some decades ago. Wouldn't you be angry too? Angry, and vengeful."
you forgot the part where North Korea invaded S Korea
you forgot the part where North Korea invaded S Korea
2
I've never seen any option other than attack them now, not later.
If we'd attacked two years ago, they would have had no missile capabilities.
If we attack them now, they will have limited missile capabilities.
If we attack them in two years, they will have a considerable stockpile.
But they're not going to stop unless we attack and neutralize the threat. YES, people will be killed, perhaps a lot of them. But it's a drop in the bucket compared to what will happen once they start selling nukes to ISIS and anyone else who wants to offer them hard currency for a pot shot at the US or others. How "expensive" will it be to lose Washington and New York?
If we'd attacked two years ago, they would have had no missile capabilities.
If we attack them now, they will have limited missile capabilities.
If we attack them in two years, they will have a considerable stockpile.
But they're not going to stop unless we attack and neutralize the threat. YES, people will be killed, perhaps a lot of them. But it's a drop in the bucket compared to what will happen once they start selling nukes to ISIS and anyone else who wants to offer them hard currency for a pot shot at the US or others. How "expensive" will it be to lose Washington and New York?
2
We should know that it is merely a matter of time (probably a short time, at that) when we will learn that the range of North Korea's missiles and the payload capacity are sufficient to reach the United States. In retrospect, 20 years have been "wasted" in attempting to come to terms with the problem.
As a matter of strategy, I think the military option has long since been foregone. Even if we could reduce the immediate threat to the continental United States, the massive loss to South Korea (Seoul in particular) is unacceptable - at least, I am sure, unacceptable to the South Koreans.
So, what are the alternatives? Perhaps we now have to face realities and recognize that a nuclear capable North Korea has joined the "club".
At the very least, North Korea should be convinced that proliferation of nuclear material and know-how to non-States represents a threat to itself as well as the rest of the world.
As a matter of strategy, I think the military option has long since been foregone. Even if we could reduce the immediate threat to the continental United States, the massive loss to South Korea (Seoul in particular) is unacceptable - at least, I am sure, unacceptable to the South Koreans.
So, what are the alternatives? Perhaps we now have to face realities and recognize that a nuclear capable North Korea has joined the "club".
At the very least, North Korea should be convinced that proliferation of nuclear material and know-how to non-States represents a threat to itself as well as the rest of the world.
"At the very least, North Korea should be convinced..."
Grown ups are extinct.
North Korea should be convinced
North Korea should be convinced
North Korea should be convinced.
Glad that was taken care of. Shall we resurrect Neville Chamberlin to negotiate the deal?
Grown ups are extinct.
North Korea should be convinced
North Korea should be convinced
North Korea should be convinced.
Glad that was taken care of. Shall we resurrect Neville Chamberlin to negotiate the deal?
South Korea has a miltary-aged population much larger than that of North Korea, an industrial base many times larger, and the technical skill to build and maintain deterrent submarine-based nuclear missiles of its own. That is not a decision that needs to be or should be made by the US. If North Korea can build nuclear tipped missiles on its own, so can both South Korea and Japan.
What South Korea cannot do is to continue to imagine that it can unite the Korean peninsula into one nation. They cannot, and that needs to be admitted and dropped as a national ambition. It is not a policy that the US can continue to support at great risk to ourselves!
What South Korea cannot do is to continue to imagine that it can unite the Korean peninsula into one nation. They cannot, and that needs to be admitted and dropped as a national ambition. It is not a policy that the US can continue to support at great risk to ourselves!
3
As a country, our judgement on international affairs has not been good for at least the past 50 years. Situations like this can be resolved diplomatically if the media will not incite our citizens, especially those that think military might is the answer to everything, to push politicians into untenable situations. Unfortunately we have a President that truly believes might is right and a Congress and Senate that appear not to have read or thought about anything other than who will give them the most money. In this situation as in many other similar ones, there is a good chance this will not end well unless, for once, we will all listen to some reasonable voices.
2
Is Putin and/or China helping North Korea develop its ICBMs? Suddenly, the North Korean missile program has made unbelievable progress in ICBM missile technology and nobody in the news media wonders why. Could Putin also help North Korea miniaturize nuclear warheads for their ICBMs? I hope the CIA is on top of this. It would be a win-win for Putin and China to see America devastated in a nuclear attack without suffering any consequences. The US Government should make it clear that any such attack on the USA by North Korea would trigger a counter attack not only on North Korea but on Moscow and Beijing as well because they have supported Kim Il Jung with economic aid as well as, in all probability, helping him develop ballistic missile and nuclear warhead technology. This is not going to end well unless America puts China and Russia on notice.
1
if they along with Japan announced that in order to maintain the balance they no longer have any option and have plans to add nuclear capability to missiles and extend their range China and Russia would pay attention.
1
I hope the NYTimes and other media investigate these claims of weapons of mass destruction thoroughly - not like the last time. We should NOT be fooled into war again, ever.
2
One can understand the South Korean leader's extreme concern and fear. Kim Jong-un goes beyond being trigger happy and power hungry. He, I believe, is not of right mind, in other words, close to or actually insane. And unfortunately we are faced with an impulsive, erratic, and, frankly, unstable president. That puts America in a very risky position.
Then there is China and Russia. In particular, it is China which is the only nation that can put some kind of a halt to North Korea's wild man's nuclear ambitions. And it dares to condemn South Korea's attempt for defense?
Yet, war at all costs has got to be avoided. I am no expert in matters of diplomacy, but it seems that there must be an international attempt, along with China and Russia, to rein in Kim. It would seem that this is our only solution. But then again, so much depends on China's cooperation.
Then there is China and Russia. In particular, it is China which is the only nation that can put some kind of a halt to North Korea's wild man's nuclear ambitions. And it dares to condemn South Korea's attempt for defense?
Yet, war at all costs has got to be avoided. I am no expert in matters of diplomacy, but it seems that there must be an international attempt, along with China and Russia, to rein in Kim. It would seem that this is our only solution. But then again, so much depends on China's cooperation.
2
All of this is just posturing leading up to the calculus of pushing China and Russia to intervene in North Korea themselves. They don't want the alternative where US troops are now bordering their countries and China has millions of North Korea refugees to deal with.
Geopolitically, China has the most to lose from North Korea's antics as it seems to provide a great excuse for arms buildup among our allies that also happen to be effective at attenuating Chinese military strike capability. Should the shooting start, South Korea stands to lose the most :(
What is the matter with China?
Does China want a missile armed South Korea?
Does China want a nuclear armed South Korea? That's sure to follow.
Does China want a missile armed Japan?
Does China want a nuclear armed Japan? That's sure to follow too.
The United States has kept the lid on armaments in the northeast Asia region for 70 years. Apparently, for the sake of Junior, China is willing to give that all up. It doesn't have to. It has the leverage to put the brakes on North Korea at a moment's notice. But it chooses not to. China feels entitled - it should have everything it's own way. China had better be happy with the situation above -
China will have to live with the consequences of its own inaction.
Does China want a missile armed South Korea?
Does China want a nuclear armed South Korea? That's sure to follow.
Does China want a missile armed Japan?
Does China want a nuclear armed Japan? That's sure to follow too.
The United States has kept the lid on armaments in the northeast Asia region for 70 years. Apparently, for the sake of Junior, China is willing to give that all up. It doesn't have to. It has the leverage to put the brakes on North Korea at a moment's notice. But it chooses not to. China feels entitled - it should have everything it's own way. China had better be happy with the situation above -
China will have to live with the consequences of its own inaction.
1
China's leadership likely believes that North Korea can conquer or destroy South Korea before South Korea can develop nukes and that Japan will develop nukes no matter what happens on the Korean Peninsula.
There isn't a large list of American citizens waiting to buy homes in China hoping educate their children there- The United States needs to force China to fix this. Start by deporting the thousands of Chinese students whose millionaire parents bought their way in here. Freeze their assets and confiscate their property. Hit them in their pocket book and watch how fast they'll resolve the North Korean problem. Every nation in the world wants to come here- So we need to use that to our advantage in every facet of our diplomacy. It's time to play hardball!
4
It is not fair that our grandchildren have to worry about a nuclear standoff, just as we baby boomers lived through the Cuban missile crisis, Eisenhower's "daisy girl" campaign ad, and the arms race with Russia - and with the added fear that this incompetent President will feel conflicted about a strong stance with China because of his family business interests, not to mention his bungling team of unqualified and inexperienced White House staff. Even Kennedy narrowly avoided a crisis during the Bay of Pigs standoff, and for some similar reasons - inexperience, no one willing to question to President.
1
LBJ's daisy girl ad.
1
Experts in the field commonly agree that: (a) N. Korea is a global menace, and (b) we can't do much except diplomatic pressure because of China as a chief spoiler, and (c) any military attack on N. Korea will result in an attack on S. Korea, and lead to untold deaths, destruction, and misery.
I will not argue with these experts; I am sure they know what they are talking about.
But, here is my question that I think deserves some thinking given the ICBMs developed by NK can reach most of the American continent. And the question is: so what?
I am glad China is gravely concerned. The least we can do to address China, and its desire to play the global bully (when it can with its immediate neighbors), or a global spoiler is to quarantine their bases in S. China sea (which essentially grounds their submarine fleet on account of shallow waters), and blockade the Malacca Straits (cutting off much needed petroleum). Because we are gravely concerned about China enabling N. Korea; and about their bellicosity.
I do know this for sure. We cannot wait until a N.Korean nuke is headed our way before we think of a military response We are facing an existential threat from a lunatic and his cult in Pyongyang. We've got to put together a coalition of western democracies - and get rid of him. Like yesterday.
Kalidan
I will not argue with these experts; I am sure they know what they are talking about.
But, here is my question that I think deserves some thinking given the ICBMs developed by NK can reach most of the American continent. And the question is: so what?
I am glad China is gravely concerned. The least we can do to address China, and its desire to play the global bully (when it can with its immediate neighbors), or a global spoiler is to quarantine their bases in S. China sea (which essentially grounds their submarine fleet on account of shallow waters), and blockade the Malacca Straits (cutting off much needed petroleum). Because we are gravely concerned about China enabling N. Korea; and about their bellicosity.
I do know this for sure. We cannot wait until a N.Korean nuke is headed our way before we think of a military response We are facing an existential threat from a lunatic and his cult in Pyongyang. We've got to put together a coalition of western democracies - and get rid of him. Like yesterday.
Kalidan
So, let me get this straight: after passing a new wave of un-rescindable sanctions on Russia, our honorable and noble congressmen and women expect Russia to cooperate in limiting North Korea's supply of oil?
Nevermind the fact that increasing hostilities on the peninsula WILL lead to the outbreak of conflict, where do our leaders come off? At this point, this is entertaining. I wonder what irradiated kim-chi tastes like? Thanks to the fine, upstanding members of our Congress, we very well might find out :-) But who knows, maybe we could just blame it all on Trump. Yeah, that'll work. The American people will neverrrr figure it out, with our credible mainstream news media and all.
Nevermind the fact that increasing hostilities on the peninsula WILL lead to the outbreak of conflict, where do our leaders come off? At this point, this is entertaining. I wonder what irradiated kim-chi tastes like? Thanks to the fine, upstanding members of our Congress, we very well might find out :-) But who knows, maybe we could just blame it all on Trump. Yeah, that'll work. The American people will neverrrr figure it out, with our credible mainstream news media and all.
2
The solution is obvious: help S. Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and, yes, even the Philippines, develop nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.
This will demonstrate to the Chinese that their secret support of N. Korea has serious consequences. It will force China to reign in N. Korea to prevent nuclear weapon proliferation. (Despite what China says, it welcomes the N. Korean distraction for the US). It will cause concern for Russia, who does not want to see new nuclear powers in Europe. It will bring China to the bargaining table on the South China Sea. It will paradoxically bring a MAD-like stability to the region.
What about China trying to encourage a nuclear Cuba? That is an easy enough problem to deal with - we've already dealt it once. What about China meddling in South America? The democracies of South America would have much more to be concerned about with a nuclear-armed South American neighbor than the US.
It is time to start modifying the NNPT to suit our political interests, which is what China is already surreptitiously doing in N. Korea.
This will demonstrate to the Chinese that their secret support of N. Korea has serious consequences. It will force China to reign in N. Korea to prevent nuclear weapon proliferation. (Despite what China says, it welcomes the N. Korean distraction for the US). It will cause concern for Russia, who does not want to see new nuclear powers in Europe. It will bring China to the bargaining table on the South China Sea. It will paradoxically bring a MAD-like stability to the region.
What about China trying to encourage a nuclear Cuba? That is an easy enough problem to deal with - we've already dealt it once. What about China meddling in South America? The democracies of South America would have much more to be concerned about with a nuclear-armed South American neighbor than the US.
It is time to start modifying the NNPT to suit our political interests, which is what China is already surreptitiously doing in N. Korea.
6
Every President, from Clinton to Trump has kicked this can down the road. Very soon Kim Jong Nam will have the power to obliterate Los Angeles, Chicago and even New York. Do not rely on Kim's rationality or fear of self destruction. In 1962, Castro wanted to give the order to nuke the United States, for the glory of the socialist revolution. His country's inevitable destruction did not matter. It was only Khruschev's surrounding the bases with Russian troops and removing the missles from Cuba prevented a devastating attack. Expect Kim to do the same. His vengeful heart burns with dreams of our destruction. If we do nothing, the attack on South Korea will occur anyway and we will do nothing under threat of a nuclear attack on the homeland. Act now, before it is too late. And don't buy the military's lies that they can protect us. Absent military action, they can't.
22
"Castro wanted to give the order to nuke the United States. . . . His country's inevitable destruction did not matter. It was only Khruschev's surrounding the bases with Russian troops and removing the missles from Cuba prevented a devastating attack."
Kim Jung Un and North Korea depend completely on China for their very existence. China does not want to see any harm come to the United States. (Rather, China wants us to prosper through debt to buy their goods, so they can own us.)
We have nothing to fear in the United States from the annoying gnat that is North Korea.
Kim Jung Un and North Korea depend completely on China for their very existence. China does not want to see any harm come to the United States. (Rather, China wants us to prosper through debt to buy their goods, so they can own us.)
We have nothing to fear in the United States from the annoying gnat that is North Korea.
1
Let's all step back a little bit. This is all geopolitic brinkmanship. While it seems some parties are going to go crazy, in reality things are more complicated and these doomsday scenarios are just overblown. Believe me, China, Russia, France, Germany, the UK and the US will not allow North Korea to disrupt the world as we know it.
1
to take a step back gotta take a step forward
JC when did you take a step forward?
JC when did you take a step forward?
All this as Trumpito continues to focus on firing his staff, expanding the circus cabinet and the tarnishing of his predecessor's work.
4
They are going to keep doing this. It wont stop until NK has more nuclear missles than China and can dictate to us what it wants.
If Kim gets enough nuclear tipped missles he will be invicible. We will have to allow him to do whatever he wants to his own people. We are going to have to be ok with NK selling nuclear and missle tech to random terroist groups and untrustworthy nation states. Where does Iran get almost all of its missle tech? Thats right, North Korea.
Are we really that spineless or crass that we are willing to do nothing? Is that really the answer? We have been doing nothing now for almost 30 years. When are we going to realize that doing nothing accomplishes nothing?
If Kim gets enough nuclear tipped missles he will be invicible. We will have to allow him to do whatever he wants to his own people. We are going to have to be ok with NK selling nuclear and missle tech to random terroist groups and untrustworthy nation states. Where does Iran get almost all of its missle tech? Thats right, North Korea.
Are we really that spineless or crass that we are willing to do nothing? Is that really the answer? We have been doing nothing now for almost 30 years. When are we going to realize that doing nothing accomplishes nothing?
1
If north and south Korea were reunited, the loser is China. So much for a "one Korea" policy - China will not allow that to happen.
From a south Korean perspective, their leadership knows as long as the US stations our forces there, we are a "trip wire" should hostilities break out. Said another way, the US is a hostage of south Korea.
So, after 64 years since the Korean Armistice was signed, what has really happen on that peninsula? South Korea has become an Asian Tiger and we have spent hundreds of billions of our treasury there.
From a south Korean perspective, their leadership knows as long as the US stations our forces there, we are a "trip wire" should hostilities break out. Said another way, the US is a hostage of south Korea.
So, after 64 years since the Korean Armistice was signed, what has really happen on that peninsula? South Korea has become an Asian Tiger and we have spent hundreds of billions of our treasury there.
1
The best route to peace is a nuclear ROK. It will force the PRC to drag the DPRK to the table to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. Nothing else will do.
4
Trump said he would "be honored" to meet with North Korea's insane leader. He wants positive relations with Putin - who helped North Korea get the nukes in the first place. He also criticized President Obama for letting North Korea have missile tests and drew a red line against North Korea from doing so under his watch. This was prior to their last three red-line-violating launches. There are three ongoing investigations regarding his and/or his campaign possible treasonous collusion with Russia to steal our election and God knows what else. His new "Communications Director" uses extreme vulgarity to criticize and emasculate his now former Chief of Staff and chief political advisor. He has his Department of Interior Chief threaten a female U.S. Republican Senator with retribution against her entire state for voting her conscious on a critically important healthcare bill. He told 40,000 boy scouts "who the hell wants to speak about politics" to them and told professional police officers to purposely abuse suspects. I'm sure I've missed a lot of other things but I have one question: Is America Great Again yet?
1
Starting September 1st, the US Navy intercepts every ship coming from or heading to North Korea. If they defy the blockade, they wind up on the bottom of the Sea of Japan.
Our blowhard President promised that North Korea will never be able to send a nuclear warhead to the United States on his watch. Hey Donnie, how's that going? Seems he's too busy trying to shrink our military of brave volunteer warfighters versus building it up. All just to keep a minority (evangelical Christians) of a minority (Trump voters) happy.
Our blowhard President promised that North Korea will never be able to send a nuclear warhead to the United States on his watch. Hey Donnie, how's that going? Seems he's too busy trying to shrink our military of brave volunteer warfighters versus building it up. All just to keep a minority (evangelical Christians) of a minority (Trump voters) happy.
3
How about some Iron Dome type defenses paid for by South Korea, the ability to strike back does not seem to bother the beloved leader.
2
They're setting up THAAD as we speak. Problem is, shooting down ballistic missiles is not the same as shooting down homemade rockets. And no defense system can possibly counteract the volume of artillery NK can put on SK....if the war gets got, all anyone can do is shoot back and/or run for cover.
11
Beat those war drums, media. WE THE PEOPLE will not allow The Con Don, Mr. Putin, the rest of the International Mafia and their military henchmen and women to start WW3. Not now. Not ever.
46
I doubt that WW3 is possible, but just how would you and your associates stop say a large scale strike on North Korea if such were ordered? Marching around yelling??? And of course the idea is to not use military force, if it was we would have already done that.
3
Imagine the rhetoric coming from the right if Hillary were president right now.
1
Vulcanex: you clearly underestimate how much the Chinese do not want US military hegemony on the Korean Peninsula. WW3 is indeed quite possible...a large scale attack will only be the beginning. Russia is also a player in this, and not in our side. There's no quick military solution. And, yes, WE will resist by whatever lawful recourse we can.
Well that didn't take long. I love how NOW the South Korean President wants to install THAAD, as though this moment weren't right at his doorstep. His supporters must be living in a dream world.
40
This is so incredibly complicated. North Korea has developed a missile capable of reaching the US, which does not mean it's capable of delivering a nuclear weapon. But that will probably come soon. The missile is not intended for an attack of the U.S. It is to deter the US from intervening in Korean conflicts. So the pacifist leader of South Korea can now upgrade his missiles which probably can't reach the deeply buried North Korean missiles.
To control this mess, the US wants to impose sanctions. But the two countries that trade with North Korea are China and Russia. The Chinese are upset about the South Korean missiles, while the Russians are subject to US sanctions, and not likely to cooperate.
That is the abridged version of the crisis. I'd give you the State Department version, but they're not doing heavy analysis these days.
The core of the issue is that we are darn close to a nuclear standoff on the Korean peninsula, a crisis that has been foreseen for 20 years. The Cold War taught us about mutual terror. This is baby-sized mutual terror. I don't think we know anything about that.
Thank Obama for defusing the nuclear situation in Iran. If the same sort of crisis existed between Iran and Israel, State Department workers would really be overloaded.
Obviously, we've got a new and serious military crisis on the Korean Peninsula. That pivot idea of about 10 years ago should be reconsidered by anyone still working at the State Department.
To control this mess, the US wants to impose sanctions. But the two countries that trade with North Korea are China and Russia. The Chinese are upset about the South Korean missiles, while the Russians are subject to US sanctions, and not likely to cooperate.
That is the abridged version of the crisis. I'd give you the State Department version, but they're not doing heavy analysis these days.
The core of the issue is that we are darn close to a nuclear standoff on the Korean peninsula, a crisis that has been foreseen for 20 years. The Cold War taught us about mutual terror. This is baby-sized mutual terror. I don't think we know anything about that.
Thank Obama for defusing the nuclear situation in Iran. If the same sort of crisis existed between Iran and Israel, State Department workers would really be overloaded.
Obviously, we've got a new and serious military crisis on the Korean Peninsula. That pivot idea of about 10 years ago should be reconsidered by anyone still working at the State Department.
2
Not that I know the best course of action but considering that it's South Korea that would be reduced to ashes first, I'd suggest that they're political choices are due a little more respect.
1
@Matt
Contrary wise THAAD does nothing for So. Korea but will please the Washington crowd while Moon hopes to find a way to settle the issue of Pyongyang disarmament. He is wisely trying to buy time in a situation of building irrationality. Pres. Moon knows the world he lives in very well.
Contrary wise THAAD does nothing for So. Korea but will please the Washington crowd while Moon hopes to find a way to settle the issue of Pyongyang disarmament. He is wisely trying to buy time in a situation of building irrationality. Pres. Moon knows the world he lives in very well.