U.N. Security Council Condemns North Korea Nuclear Test

The Security Council strongly condemned North Korea’s nuclear test on Friday, saying it would immediately begin consultations on further “appropriate measures.”

The statement, which was unanimous and came on the same day as the test, said North Korea’s actions demonstrated a “clear violation” and “flagrant disregard” of existing council resolutions, as well as a threat to international peace and stability.

The council could take weeks or months to draft a new resolution, which would either impose new sanctions or strengthen the existing one adopted in March. After North Korea’s previous nuclear test, in January, it took about two months for the council to impose punitive measures.

Diplomats said they hoped the pattern and frequency of North Korea’s actions would prompt a faster reaction this time.

“We are not left with too many options. We should either be able to defend ourselves against flying nuclear bombs or pursue North Korea to give up its nuclear program,” said Oh Joon, South Korea’s ambassador to the United Nations.
Japan’s ambassador said many members called for further measures during the nearly two-hour meeting, adding “there was no opposition,” suggesting China could be on board.

China’s ambassador Liu Jieyi didn’t confirm whether his country would green-light sanctions. “Both sides should refrain from mutual provocation and any action that might exacerbate the situation,” he told reporters.

wsj