The
North Korea´s dangerously aggressive posture remains a major issue in the
international political agenda. Consequently, the UN Security Council met
yesterday on the matter. This was a meeting at the ministerial level as to
demonstrate the seriousness of the most recent developments related to the
country.
The
US approach to make use of extreme diplomatic pressure on Pyongyang deserves
support. Diplomacy passes through Beijing. The key to convince Kim Jong Un to
abandon the accelerated missile and nuclear programmes is held by China.
Therefore, the efforts on the diplomatic front must focus on very close
contacts with the Chinese leadership.
It
is also true that China does not appreciate a deeper US presence in the region.
In particular, it remains strongly opposed to the THAAD missile deployment that
the US has launched in South Korea. But that disagreement should not be an
excuse. China must use all its leverage on North Korea.
The
US additional show of force can be justified by the recent threats coming from
the North. It should also be recognised that it contributes to intensify the
atmosphere of crisis. But it is also obvious that the main cause of tension
comes from Kim´s options.
The
North Korean leader must understand that the American policy has changed. It is
in his own interest, besides the interests of his fellow citizens.
In
the last few hours there have been some noises regarding direct action against
Kim himself. I would not be surprised if it is confirmed that such action is under
review. However, that or any preventive strike – and we have been further away
from a strike than we are today – would cause hell in the Peninsula, and in the
region.
I
trust that people who decide about these matters fully understand what is at
play.
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