US: Will use military force against North Korea if needed
The US said it will use its military forces against North Korea "if we must," in reaction to Pyongyang's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch. US ambassador Nikki Haley said during an emergency UN Security Council meeting that the ICBM represented a sharp military escalation that was "quickly closing off the possibility of a diplomatic solution." The ICBM launch has been condemned by world leaders.
N.Korea tests a missile that can reach 'anywhere in world'
On July 4, North Korea said it had successfully tested a long-range nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It said the missile is capable of striking anywhere in the world. North Korean state television reported that the Hwasong-14 missile's launch was overseen by leader Kim Jong-Un. Earlier, the US military had said a North Korean ballistic missile had landed in the Sea of Japan.
What Haley said during emergency Security Council meeting
"The United States is prepared to use the full range of our capabilities to defend ourselves, and our allies," Haley said. This includes "our considerable military forces. We will use them, if we must, but we prefer not to have to go in that direction."
US considers new trade restrictions which may impact China
Haley said the US may consider halting trade with countries that defy UN resolutions and continue trading with North Korea. This places China, North Korea's biggest trading partner, in a tough spot days after America sanctioned some Chinese banks and individuals for having links to Pyongyang. US President Donald Trump had also earlier criticized China for trading with the North.
Trump frustrated over Chinese inaction against North Korea
Trump tweeted: "Trade between China and North Korea grew almost 40 pct in the first quarter. So much for China working with us - but we had to give it a try!" Trump had hoped Chinese President Xi Jinping would rein in Pyongyang.
UN Security Council permanent members France, Russia and China respond
Unlike the US which has threatened military action, UN Security Council permanent member said it favors a new resolution tightening sanctions on North Korea. Russia has condemned the test but said any potential military measures "should be excluded." China echoed Russia's statement by calling North Korea's actions unacceptable but has called for all sides involved to show restraint.
North Korea to be hot topic at G20 summit
North Korea is set to dominate the agenda at G20 summit being held in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7-8. South Korean President Moon Jae-in said he would urge world leaders to support tougher sanctions on North Korea. Trump has also said he would discuss North Korea at the G20, especially with Chinese President Xi Jinping, South Korea's Moon and Japanese PM Shinzo Abe.
