U.S. adds sanctions on North Korea
Reaction to threat of nuclear testing
WASHINGTON • North Korea’s plan to conduct a third nuclear test is “needlessly provocative” and will only increase its isolation, the White House said Thursday, as the United States expanded its financial sanctions.
U. S. Defence Secretary Leon Panetta said he has seen no outward sign that North Korea will follow through soon on its plan to conduct a test — following its underground atomic explosions in 2006 and 2009.
But that doesn’t mean preparations aren’t underway.
“They have the capability, frankly, to conduct these tests in a way that make it very difficult to determine whether or not they are doing it,” Panetta told reporters.
North Korea’s National Defence Commission said Thursday a nuclear test was part of “upcoming” action directed against the U.S., but did not say exactly when or where it would take place.
The commission, led by leader Kim Jong Un, also made clear that its long-range rockets are designed to carry warheads aimed at striking the U.S.
The North has previously said its launches are for a peaceful space program.
Pyongyang’s statement came two days after the UN Security Council condemned its December launch of a satellite atop a long-range rocket for violating a ban on ballistic missile activity.
The council, with the support of the North’s only major ally, China, also tightened sanctions.
“North Korea’s statement is needlessly provocative and a test would be a significant violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions,” White House spokesman Carney told reporters.