Country |
Comment |
North Korea |
Ri Yong Pil- Deputy Foreign Minister
October 25, 20171
"The foreign minister is very well aware of the intentions of our supreme leader, so I think you should take his words literally.
"The US is talking about a military option and even practicing military moves. They're pressuring us on all fronts with sanctions. If you think this will lead to diplomacy, you're deeply mistaken."
Spokesperson – Korea Asia-Pacific Peace Committee via Rodong Sinmun
October 24, 20172
“Now that it is crystal clear to all that Japan is pushing ahead with the reinvasion preparations in the final stage with the backing of the U.S., the DPRK has the right to take a tough countermeasure for self-defense.”
Choe Son-hui- Director General, North American Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
October 24, 20173
"The North will never give up its nuclear weapons as long as the U.S.' hostile policy, including military activities, sanctions and pressure, continue.”
"If the U.S. makes the right choice, such as abandoning its hostile policy and moving to coexist with a nuclear DPRK, there will be a way out.”
"For a diplomatic and peaceful resolution, the correct atmosphere should be created, but at a time when there are daily threatening tweets from President Trump, the North cannot sit down for talks.”
KCNA
October 23, 20174
“The south Korean puppet forces should clearly understand that already in hand are the toughest countermeasure of Korean style to cope with the U.S. reckless military act.”
An Tong Chun- Vice- chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly
October 21, 20175
“As it had already clarified, the DPRK will never put on a negotiating table its nuclear deterrence for self-defence, as long as the U.S. nuclear threat and hostile policy continue, but will give further spurs to building strength for defending its sovereignty and right to existence and ensuring regional peace and security by achieving substantial balance with the U.S.”
Choe Son Hui- Chief, North American Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs October 20, 20176
"Our leader Kim Jong Un has explained our stance: we will coerce the Americans to peace and respond to fire with fire. We have nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, but we will not use them if there is no threat.” "By now we have practically come close to a final balance with the United States. Our ultimate goal is to achieve a balance with the United States to ensure it does not dare to speak about any military actions against the DPRK.”
Spokesman- Pan-Korean Emergency Measure Committee for Opposing Nuclear War Drills Against the DPRK
October 18, 20177 "The United States apparently went crazy, when they brought their targets that we had identified as the main ones so close to us. They should keep in mind that our strike will hit them in an unexpected time in an unexpected place.”
KCNA October 17, 20178
“Trump causes troubles by spitting out reckless remarks without any calculation. It was very ridiculous for Trump to frighten the DPRK by his maniac deposition. The DPRK will never stop even a moment the efforts to build up the nuclear force until it has achieved equilibrium of force with the U.S.”
Uriminzokkiri- State Controlled Website
October 17, 20179
“The U.S. reckless military gambling against the DPRK may lead to its total destruction. As the U.S. denies even the existence of the DPRK and tries to topple it by force, the latter's counteractions will be inevitable.”
Uriminzokkiri- State Controlled Website
October 17, 201710
“Now, the Korean Peninsula is on the threshold of a nuclear disaster and no one knows at what time a thermonuclear war will break out. The Trump group should think twice about what terrible consequences the U.S. will face due to its scheme for a nuclear attack on the DPRK.”
“The status of force between the DPRK and U.S. at present is fundamentally different from what was in the past Korean War in the 1950s. The U.S. reckless military gambling against the DPRK may lead to its total destruction.”
Kim In Ryong- Deputy U.N. Ambassador
October 16, 201711
“As long as one does not take part in the U.S. military actions against the DPRK (North Korea), we have no intention to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against any other country,” according to Kim’s prepared remarks. “The entire U.S. mainland is within our firing range and if the U.S. dares to invade our sacred territory even an inch it will not escape our severe punishment in any part of the globe.”
An Tong Chun- Deputy Chairman, Supreme People’s Assembly
"We are determined to build up our nuclear forces until peace in struggle with the United States is secured," he said. "North Korea will never discuss its right to nuclear weapons as long as the United States keeps its nuclear threat and belligerent policy towards North Korea."
October 15, 201713
"Our country is facing a threat, with its existence at stake.” "But history proves that we must be able to defend ourselves." "Our nuclear programs are programs of nuclear deterrence geared to defend our independence. We have no other choice than to develop our nuclear programs.” "We want the United States to stop its hostile policy towards North Korea. It creates barriers on the path of peace talks.”
Spokesman- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
October 14, 201714
“Australia is showing dangerous moves of zealously joining the frenzied political and military provocations of the U.S. against the DPRK."
"The Australian foreign minister (Julie Bishop) personally expressed her support for the stand of the U.S. to consider all options including the use of force towards the DPRK, and turned up at Panmunjom on Oct. 11 to condemn the DPRK during her visit to South Korea."
"The reckless remarks and conducts by the Australian government officials in support of the military option of the U.S. against the DPRK are foolish acts of allowing themselves to be exploited by Trump's selfish 'America First Policy' at the cost of their own national interests." Ri Yong- ho- Foreign Minister October 11, 201715 My country today is attaining a victory and acting as a worthy counterbalance to the United States, which refers to itself as the “only superpower.” I believe that having such a strong neighbor by its side quite agrees with Russia’s interests. “The United States these days is conducting a policy of sanctions against both countries – the DPRK and Russia, trying at the same time to make Russia join the campaign of sanctions against the DPRK with the aim of breeding discord between our countries.” “By his belligerent and insane statement at the United Nations Trump, so to say, lighted the fuse of war against us.” We have nearly achieved the final point on the way to our ultimate goal, to achieving a real balance of force with the United States. Our nuclear weapons will never be a subject matter of negotiations as long as the United States’ policy of pressure on the DPRK has not been uprooted once and for all.” “Our principled position is that we will never agree to any negotiations, at which our nuclear weapons will become the subject of talks.” |
USA |
Bob Corker- Senator
October 29, 201716
"When our secretary of state is sitting down with a partner that matters most -- China -- trying to negotiate something that would resolve and keep us from going into military conflict with North Korea, which brings in South Korea, Japan, China, and Russia, and he's knee-capped by the president, it hurts our nation. It hurts our efforts.”
"It leads us more fully towards the conflict that most of us would like to see resolved in another way. The tweets that are sent out mocking a leader of another country raises tensions in the region."
Jim Mattis- Secretary of Defense
October 28, 201717
"Make no mistake -- any attack on the United States or our allies, will be defeated.”
"Any use of nuclear weapons will be met with a massive military response."
"If it remains on its current path of ballistic missiles and atomic bombs, it will be counterproductive, in effect, reducing its security.”
"Diplomacy is our preferred course of option.” "As I repeatedly emphasized, our diplomats are most effective when backed by credible military force in this sort of situation."18 October 27, 201719 "As Secretary of State Tillerson has made clear, our goal is not war but rather the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.” Sarah SandersOctober 27, 201720 Regarding former US President Jimmy Carter’s announcement that he is willing to go to North Korea, White House Press Secretary said, “I don't think that's part of our process at this time. If that changes, we'll certainly let you know. But that's not part of our current plan or thinking for how to deal with North Korea.” Dana White -Chief Spokesperson, Pentagon October 27, 201721 "This was a unique opportunity to show that the U.S. (is) the only power in the world that can demonstrate that kind of presence, and a unique opportunity for them to be together.” "It's not directed towards any particular threat, but it's a demonstration that we can do something that no one else in the world can."
Jim Mattis- Secretary, Department of Defense
October 26, 201722
"A number of people talked about hoping diplomatic efforts will work, that sanctions will cause them to change course.” "Do we have military options in defense if we're attacked, our allies are attacked? Of course we do. But everyone is out for a peaceful resolution. Not rushing to war." Asked whether the participants seemed anxious that Trump's rhetoric could lead to a military conflict, Mattis said, "No." "We are out for a peaceful resolution." October 25, 201723 “I had more of a sense that they -- that everyone was --understands the very serious -- But I did not pick up fatalist. A number of people talked about hoping diplomatic efforts will work, that sanctions will cause them to change course.” Steven Mnuchin- Treasury Secretary
October 26, 201724
"Today's sanctions target the North Korean military and regime officials engaged in flagrant abuses of human rights."
"We also are targeting North Korean financial facilitators who attempt to keep the regime afloat with foreign currency earned through forced labor operations."
Heather Nauert- Spokesperson, State Department
October 26, 201725
“Will North Korea be designated as a state sponsor of terror? Secretary Tillerson had addressed this somewhat when we talked about Otto Warmbier. He said that we will hold North Korea accountable for his unjust imprisonment and – as we of course extended our condolences to the family and always do every time we talk about this. Just to be clear, as a matter of law, for any country to be determined to be a state sponsor of terror, the secretary of state has to determine that the government of that country has repeatedly provided support for the acts of international terrorism.”
Grace Choi- Spokesperson, East Asian and Pacific Affairs Bureau, State Department
October 25, 201726
“We have been clear that the United States has the unquestionable ability to defend itself, and its allies.” "North Korea, through both its words and actions, threatens and undermines international peace and security."
Bob Corker - Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
October 25, 201527
"Really, when you look at the fact that we've got this issue in North Korea and the president continues to kneecap his diplomatic representative, the secretary of state, and really move him away from successful diplomatic negotiations with China, which is key to this, you're taking us on a path to combat.”
"I want to support these efforts that are underway.”
"The president undermines our secretary of state, raises tensions in the area by virtue of the tweets that he sends out." "I would just like for him to leave it to the professionals for a while and see if we can do something that's constructive for our country, the region, and the world."
Charles Schumer- Senate Minority Leader October 25, 201528 "Instead of undermining his secretary of state and picking Twitter fights with Kim Jong-un that risk a war, he should formulate a serious strategy to put heat on China to pressure the North Koreans to resolve the crisis," he said before the Senate, referring to the North Korean leader. Trump and Kim have recently traded personal insults, calling each other "Little Rocket Man" and a "deranged U.S. dotard." "China holds the cards here. They've done very little to help us." Cory Gardner- Senator October 25, 201729 “There is really no other option than to continue sanctions. The other option is military conflicts and we must avoid military conflicts.” "It's important that we increase diplomatic and economic pressure on North Korea while we prepare for the protection of South Korea and our allies. At the forefront of what we do and the strengthening of our Korea-U.S. alliance are all for the purpose of the peaceful denuclearization (of North Korea).” "There's much more that China could be doing as a responsible global power and neighbor of North Korea."
Jim Mattis- Secretary of Defense
October 23, 201730
"America's commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea... two of our most respected allies, remains ironclad and we recognize that we are stronger together.”
Marc Knapper- Acting Ambassador to South Korea
October 23, 201731
"Together we and the Republic of Korea (ROK) are facing the most acute threat which is North Korea, and the threats posed by North Korea's unlawful ballistic missile and nuclear programs are grave.” "Our administration in Washington had made it very clear that we seek a peaceful denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.” "We are working closely with our partners in Seoul, Tokyo and elsewhere to apply the maximum diplomatic, political and economic pressure on North Korea. These are tools we are very focused on using in close cooperation with allies." "We see this alliance as a linchpin of U.S. foreign policy and security policy in the Asia-Pacific region and our commitment to this alliance remains ironclad," he said. "This is the message as well when President Trump comes to visit (South Korea in November)." Donald Trump- President October 22, 201732
"You would be shocked to see how totally prepared we are if we need to be” “Would it be nice not to do that? The answer is yes." "And China's really helping us, and -- well, also with respect to North Korea -- 93 percent of things going into North Korea come through China. China is big stuff."
Jim Mattis- Secretary of Defense
October 22, 201733 “DPRK, the message is the same one as China, Russia, France, the United States, and all the international community has been directing, to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. There is only one country with nuclear weapons on the Korean peninsula. The U.N. Security Council unanimous resolution gives a pretty good idea how the international community looks at it.” Jimmy Carter- Former President October 22, 201734 "I would go, yes," Carter told the Times. "I told him (McMaster) that I was available if they ever need me." "I think he's (Kim Jong-un) now got advanced nuclear weaponry that can destroy the Korean Peninsula and Japan, and some of our outlying territories in the Pacific, maybe even our mainland.” "I'm afraid, too, of a situation". “I don't know what they'll do. Because they want to save their regime."
Joseph Yun- Special Representative for North Korea Policy October 20, 201735 "For Washington, being together and being well coordinated with Seoul is (our) No. 1 priority.”
"There are many occasions for our leaders to engage each other to coordinate our positions to have a very solid and joint approach as we go forward."
Mike Pompeo- Director, Central Intelligence Agency
October 19, 201736
"They are closer now than they were five years ago, and I expect they will be closer in five months than they are today, absent a global effort to push back against them.” "It is the case that they are close enough now in their capabilities that from a U.S. policy perspective, we ought to behave as if we are on the cusp of them achieving that objective." "But when you're now talking about months. Our capacity to understand that at a detailed level is in some sense irrelevant." John Sullivan - U.S. Deputy Secretary of State
October 18, 201737
"We will continue those efforts to press the regime to stop its unlawful behavior, stop the weapons tests, stop the missile tests. We are working to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula... however, the regime in Pyongyang is unpredictable and not transparent.”
"We have to be prepared. For that reason, President Trump, Secretary Mattis and Secretary Tillerson said that all options are on the table. Diplomacy is our primary objective... in addressing the threats posed by North Korea. (But) we are prepared to respond to any eventuality.” John J. Sullivan- Deputy Secretary of State October 17, 201738 “Eventually, we don’t rule out the possibility of course of direct talks.” “Our focus is on diplomacy to solve this problem that is presented by the DPRK. We must, however, with our allies, Japan and South Korea and elsewhere, be prepared for the worst, should diplomacy fail.” Heather Nauert- Spokesperson, State Department October 17, 201739 "The deputy secretary and his Japanese counterparts underscored the importance of close cooperation to place maximum diplomatic, economic, and military pressure on the DPRK to abandon its nuclear and missile development.” "The deputy also reiterated the importance of trilateral cooperation with Japan and the Republic of Korea to address the DPRK's threat." Jack Reed- Senator October 17, 201740 "I think the confusion is the message the administration is sending.” "Secretary (of State Rex) Tillerson has been trying to establish diplomatic channels to North Korea. He's been trying to collaborate with our allies. But President Trump ... repeatedly sort of dissed him, told him not to do it in a series of tweets." "It's going to be ultimately necessary to have diplomacy here," Reed said, "because the consequences of a war are catastrophic on the peninsula." Hilary Clinton- Former Secretary of State
October 17, 201741
“There is no need for us to be bellicose and aggressive (over North Korea).” “Picking fights with Kim Jong Un puts a smile on his face.”
Heather Nauert- Spokesperson, State Department October 16, 201742
"We are most interested in talking when the time is right.” "They're not showing an interest in that right now, but that is why we will continue to push forward with our peaceful pressure campaign." "We're following his lead, but we're all bolstering one another's work. We're all on the same page, pushing for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and helping to make sure our allies understand we are firmly behind that."
Rex Tillerson – Secretary of State
October 15, 201743
"Those diplomatic efforts will continue until the first bomb drops."
"The President has also made clear to me that he wants this solved diplomatically. He is not seeking to go to war."
Nikki Haley- Ambassador to UN
October 15, 201744
"It (Trump’s approach to JCPOA) sends the perfect message to North Korea, which is we're not going to engage in a bad deal.”
"Should we ever get into a deal, we're going to hold you accountable. We're not going to look the other way because we think we have made a deal and we're not going to continue to watch it."
"What you see is the president is trying to make sure that Iran doesn't become the next North Korea.” "We're not going to do what we have done for the last 25 years.” “We're not going to beg them to come to the negotiating table. We're not going to try and win them over with incentives and things like that. We need them to stop nuclear testing, and we need that to stop right away. And until then, until they show a willingness to try and be a good international actor, no, there's no conversation that needs to be had.” Gen. H.R. McMaster- National Security Advisor
October 15, 201745
“ He (Donald Trump) is not going to permit this rogue regime, Kim Jong-un, to threaten the United States with a nuclear weapon. And so, he is willing (ph) to do anything necessary to prevent that from happening and what Kim Jong-un should recognize is that if he thinks the development of this nuclear capability is keeping him safer, it's actually the opposite. It’s having the opposite effect.
“They (military) were under constant refinement. So, we have a broad range of new capabilities coming into our armed forces, thanks to the president's focus on modernizing the armed forces, addressing what had been a bow wave of deferred military modernization.”
“I think with a real danger is in terms of communicating with Kim Jong-un is that he doesn't understand how serious we are about his behavior and behavior of the regime. And the president has been very clear on that and I think that is -- it’s beneficial to the safety and security of not only the United States but our great allies in South Korea and Japan and the world.”
Donald Trump- President
October 13, 201746
“If something can happen where we negotiate, I'm always open to that. But if it's going to be something other than negotiation, believe me, we are ready, more so than we have ever been.”
October 11, 201747
“I think I have a little bit different attitude on North Korea than other people might have.” “And I listen to everybody, but ultimately my attitude is the one that matters, isn't it? That's the way it works. That's the way the system is.” “But I think I might have a somewhat different attitude and a different way than other people. I think perhaps I feel stronger and tougher on that subject than other people, but I listen to everybody. And ultimately, I will do what's right for the United States and, really, what's right for the world. Because that's really a world problem; that's beyond just the United States. That's a world problem, and it's a problem that has to be solved.” |
South Korea |
Cho Myoung-gyon- Minister of Unification
October 30, 201748
"After the death of founder Kim Il-sung, North Korea faced severe economic difficulties. In some cases, we think that the North's situation could get worse compared with that period.”
"About 90 percent of North Korean export products are expected to be hit by the U.N. sanctions and Washington's unilateral punitive acts.”
Kang Kyung-wha- Foreign Minister October 30, 201749 "We are not considering any additional THAAD deployment.”
"Let me be clear on this. As explained on many occasions before, the THAAD system is a self-defense measure that has nothing to do with the MD (US led Missile Defense).”
Song Young-moo- Defense Minister
October 28, 2017 "(We) have agreed to support both countries' diplomatic efforts to attain the denuclearization (of the North) with the robust combined defense posture.” October 27, 201750 “Myself and Secretary Mattis stand here today together to show that the ROK-U.S. alliance is indeed close and well-cooperated as well as completely aligned in our stance.” “And hereby we also affirm that, although North Korea continues to develop nuclear weapon and missiles, but these are weapons that they should never be used. Should they ever use it, they will be faced with the strong might of the ROK-U.S. combined forces, and they will be met with a proportional and firm response.” “And we also strongly implore that North Korea stop its reckless provocations and come out toward the path of peace and dialogue.” Park Ro-byug- South Korean Ambassador to Russia October 26, 201751 "until the North sends a signal for genuine dialogue, the international community must send a unified message to the North". He said "the North has to reaffirm its commitment to denuclearization and take sincere measures in this regard."
Song Young-moo- Defense Minister
October 24, 201752
"What's more important is to demonstrate the ironclad alliance and reaffirm the U.S. plan to send those assets promptly when they are necessary.” Regarding the redeployment of US tactical nuclear weapons in South Korea, the Minister said, “As there are virtually no time and space constraints with the development of weapons systems, the redeployment of tactical nuclear weapons is not that meaningful”
October 23, 201753
"Our trilateral security cooperation has played a critical role in deterring North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and maintaining peace and stability in the region." "The ministers of the three countries (US, Japan and South Korea) agreed to cooperate actively in order to support diplomatic efforts to resolve the North Korean nuclear issue through maximum pressure on the North Korea issue."
Moon Jae-in- President
October 22, 201754
"From verifying whether a person was alive or passed away to the exchange of letters and holding reunions, we will deal with the earnest wishes of the separated families apart from the political and military situation." Kang Kyung-wha- Foreign Minister October 22, 201755 "Parts of its tunnel have been destroyed after the North conducted the sixth nuclear test, but it has more than one of them so (an additional nuke test) can be done at any time.
"North Korea declaring the completion of its nuke weapon and it having a strategy on how to actually use it are different issues.”
Statement- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
October 20, 201756 "The envoys (South Korea's top nuclear envoy Lee Do-hoon and his U.S. counterpart Joseph Yun) shared the need to seek cooperation with major partners based on a close Seoul-Washington alliance. In particular, they agreed to beef up efforts to elicit constructive roles by China and Russia (in reining in the North).” Lim Sung-nam- Vice Foreign Minister
October 18, 201757
"We shared our assessments of the current situation and reaffirmed our push for a complete dismantlement of the North's nuclear program through peaceful methods," Lim told reporters in a joint press conference. "We also agreed to make all possible diplomatic efforts, including sanctions and dialogue, through close coordination among the three countries." "In particular, the three countries held the same view that it is essential to stably manage the situation on the Korean Peninsula, while at the same time keeping pressure on the North to resolve its nuclear problem," he added. "We are dedicated to diplomacy. We are dedicated to the campaign of pressure on the DPRK, pressure not only by our allies but by other states as well, including China, Russia and other members of the U.N. Security Council.” "Our objective is, through the campaign of pressure, to bring North Korea to the negotiating table without preconditions so that we can achieve our objective of a denuclearized Korean Peninsula.” Kang Kyung-wha – Foreign Minister
October 18, 201758
"A successful resolution of the North's nuclear problem depends heavily on close cooperation among South Korea, the U.S. and Japan.” "I hope that the three vice ministers hold discussions in detail and based on them, the three countries seek much closer coordination at the ministerial and leaders' levels.” Baik Tae-hyun – Spokesman, Ministry of Unification
October 18, 201759 "The government is continuously considering slapping unilateral sanctions, but specifics have not been decided.” "As long as North Korea continues its provocations, various measures could be considered as a way to increase (the effects) of international sanctions and pressure.” Ahn Ho-young- Ambassador to USA October 16, 201760
“Responsible government officials in the U.S. note that while all options are on the table, there are many things that can be done before taking up military options." "The goal of the Trump administration's sanctions and pressure campaign is ultimately a peaceful solution to the North Korean problem.” "Whether it's Defense Secretary James Mattis or Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, they all say the same thing." Song Young-moo- Defense Minister October 14, 201761
"Now is the very time to show the power of close South Korea-U.S. coordination under the circumstances that North Korea's threats go on.” "The strengthening of the regular rotational deployment of U.S. strategic assets demonstrate the allies' strong commitment to the defense of the Korean Peninsula."
Chung Eui-yong – Chairman, National Security Office October 13, 2017 "This is an extremely grave situation, as we see a vicious cycle of North Korean provocations and international sanctions.” "The Moon administration inherited the most difficult security environment, but we're doing the best we can." "The basis of the Moon administration's policy is peaceful denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and building peace by improving inter-Korean relations."
Kang Kyung-wha- Foreign Minister October 12, 201762 "We will beef up our leading role to generate an environment in which denuclearization talks can resume.” "In this process, we will actively push to induce the influence that China and Russia have over the North." |
China |
Geng Shuang- Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry October 27, 201763 US announced a set of new sanctions against North Korea on October 25, 2017 on human rights abuses. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson in response said, “Our stance is very clear. The Chinese side has always disapproved of any unilateral sanctions outside the framework of the UN Security Council imposed on others by a certain country in accordance with its domestic law.” October 26, 201764 “The Chinese side highly values its relations with the ROK. Since the establishment of the diplomatic ties between China and the ROK, the bilateral relations have developed rapidly, and the cooperation between the two countries in economy, trade, culture and people-to-people and other fields have brought tangible benefits to the two peoples. We stand ready to work with the ROK to surmount certain difficulties in the development of our relations at present and promote the sound and steady development of the bilateral relations.” October 23, 201765 “China and Russia, sharing the same position on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, have been in close communication and coordination with each other. The joint plan, based on China's dual-track approach and suspension-for-suspension proposal and Russia's step-by-step initiative, is a fair and reasonable one which gives full consideration to and strives to accommodate in a balanced way the concerns of all relevant parties. It will help us out of the current stalemate and lead to a breakthrough for the resumption of talks. We once again call on all relevant parties to give serious thoughts and positive responses to the plan and make earnest efforts to bring the Korean Peninsula issue back to the right track of settlement through dialogue and consultation.”
Lu Kang- Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
October 20, 201766
On EU’s new sanction on North Korea the spokesperson said, “We have said many times that the Chinese side is always opposed to the unilateral sanctions outside the framework of the resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council.” “Currently, the situation on the Korean Peninsula remains highly complex and sensitive. All relevant parties should strive to ease the tense situation and create enabling atmosphere and conditions for them to come back to the track of resolving the issue through negotiation. All relevant parties should make concerted efforts to avoid provocating each other. We hope that all relevant parties can act prudently.”
October 17, 201767 Response to North Korean official’s remark on the possibility of breaking out a nuclear war at any moment. “In that case, it would by no means serve the interests of any party. Currently, the situation on the Korean Peninsula remains highly complex and sensitive. Against this backdrop, the Chinese side hopes that all relevant parties can exercise restraint and do more things that can help to ease the regional situation and make all relevant parties come back to the track of resolving the issue through negotiation instead of taking the steps which will provocate each other and add fuel to the fire. October 16, 201768
“The situation on the Korean Peninsula remains highly sensitive and tense. If this kind of situation persisted, it would not serve the interests of any party, especially the regional countries. In view of this, we hope that all relevant parties can exercise restraint and strive to make the current situation move towards the direction of abatement and the resumption of dialogue instead of doing the opposite.” Hua Chunying - Foreign Ministry Spokesperson October 11, 201769 The two sides (China and Russia) express high concern to the current situation on the Korean Peninsula. Both of them believe that all the relevant parties should remain restrained, refrain from actions that may escalate tensions and faithfully uphold peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula and the region. The two sides reaffirm their adherence to the goal of the denuclearization of the Peninsula, call on various parties to positively respond to the Chinese-Russian joint initiative based on the "suspension for suspension" and "dual track" proposal and the "step by step" roadmap, and urge all parties to return to the track of dialogue and negotiation at an early date. |
Russia |
Sergey Shoigu - Defense Minister October 24, 2017
“Rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula cause serious concern.” "We strongly condemn North Korea’s nuclear and missile tests. At the same time, we stand against excessive military activities carried out by some regional countries”. "We are confident that a road map based on the Russian and Chinese initiatives should become the foundation for the use of political and diplomatic mechanisms aimed at resolving the North Korea issue.” Sergey Lavrov- Foreign Minister October 20, 201770
"We are certain that its implementation will help ease military activity and tensions on the peninsula and shape a system of equitable and indivisible security in Northeast Asia." "Number one task at the current stage is preventing an armed conflict, which would inevitably result in a humanitarian and ecological disaster.” Vladimir Putin- President October 19, 201771 "The situation is dangerous.” "Who can say what the North Koreans hide and where, and whether one preemptive strike will destroy all that”. “We only have one option - to come to an agreement. We should respect the country. What role can Russia play? In this case, a mediator’s role.” Sergey Lavrov- Foreign Minister October 16, 201772 "Pyongyang is acting in a provocative manner, seriously violating all the UN Security Council’s resolutions." "The US is rejecting dialogue at this stage and indicates by withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal that agreements are worth nothing." "How can one now anticipate North Korea to be interested in talks?" "The US immediately introduces sanctions without any knowledge of the situation, but North Korea will not work under such terms as it will consider the US incapable of reaching agreements." Konstantin Kosachev - MP and Chairman, International Committee of Federation Council October 16, 201773 “I think that today’s decision of the European Union to impose further sanctions against North Korea is not a signal that could be now expected from Brussels concerning the North Korean problem," said Konstantin Kosachev, chairman of the international committee of Russia’s Federation Council upper parliament house.” "Today, the problem cannot be reduced to Pyongyang’s banal non-implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. The problem is that the situation has actually developed into an open confrontation between the United States and North Korea on the brink of an armed conflict." Valentina Matviyenko - Speaker of the Upper House October 16, 201774
"We strongly denounce North Korea’s actions for developing its nuclear armament program and the tests they conduct and urge the entire international community to strictly comply with the UN Security Council resolutions.”
|
Japan |
Taro Aso- Deputy Prime Minister
October 27, 201775
“Obviously, (the victory) was partly thanks to North Korea and the various people who have various opinions.”
“When I gave speeches (to support LDP candidates), especially in areas on the side of the Sea of Japan, I really had that feeling.”
Itsunori Onodera – Defense Minister
October 24, 201776
“Threat posed by North Korea was grown to unprecedented, critical and imminent level. Therefore, we have to stay collaborated in defense responses to meet that level of threats.”
October 23, 201777
"We have to take calibrated and differentiated responses to meet with that level of threat."
Taro Kono- Foreign Minister
October 24, 201778
On the possibility of dialogue with North Korea, the foreign minister said, “I think North Korea must clearly demonstrate its willingness to abandon nuclear and missile activities.” |
****
*The Author, Research Fellow, Indian Council of World Affairs, New Delhi.
Disclaimer: The views expressed are that of the Researcher and not of the Council.
EndNotes
1 “N. Korea says nuclear test threat should be taken 'literally'”, The Yonhap News, October 26, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/26/0401000000AEN20171026000200315.html
2 "KAPPC Spokesman Blasts Japanese Authorities' Reckless Action", Rodong Sinmun, October 24, 2017, http://rodong.rep.kp/en/index.php?strPageID=SF01_02_01&newsID=2017-10-24-0007
3 "N.K. diplomat urged U.S. to make 'right choice' for 'way out': Seoul official", The Yonhap News, October 24, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/24/0401000000AEN20171024006451315.html
4 "KCNA Commentary on S. Korean Puppet Forces' Deplorable Situation", KCNA, October 23, 2017, https://kcna.kp/
5 "Speech of Head of DPRK Delegation at IPU Session", Rodong Sinmun, October 21, 2017, http://rodong.rep.kp/en/index.php?strPageID=SF01_02_01&newsID=2017-10-21-0011
6 "Washington will have to put up with North Korea's nuclear status — Pyongyang", TASS, October 20, 2017, http://tass.com/world/971785
7 “Invaders, provokers, will meet most miserable death” KCNA, October 18, 2017, https://kcna.kp/
8 “Trump Ridiculed for His Balderdash: KCNA Commentary”, KCNA, October 17, 2017, https://kcna.kp/
9 “U.S. Military Gambling against DPRK May Lead to Its Total Destruction”, Uriminzokkiri, October 17, 2017, http://www.uriminzokkiri.com/index.php?ptype=english&no=1037
10 "U.S. Military Gambling against DPRK May Lead to Its Total Destruction”, October 17, 2017, http://www.uriminzokkiri.com/index.php?ptype=english&no=10377
11 "North Korea warns states: Don't join any U.S. action and you're safe", Reuters, October 16, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-un/north-korea-warns-states-dont-join-any-u-s-action-and-youre-safe-idUSKBN1CL2PI
12 “Pyongyang to continue to build up its nuclear potential — senior lawmaker, TASS, October 16, 2017, http://tass.com/world/970965
13 “US leaves North Korea no choice other than develop nuclear programs - North Korean MP”, TASS, October 15, 2017, http://tass.com/world/970808
14 "DPRK Foreign Ministry Spokesman on Australia's Hostile Moves", KCNA, October 14, 2017, www.kcna.kp
15 "DPRK people demand US be punished by 'hail of fire' for aggressive policy — top diplomat", TASS, October 11, 2017, http://tass.com/world/970085",
16 "U.S. senator slams Trump again over N.K. policy", The Yonhap News, October 30, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/30/0401000000AEN20171030000200315.html
17 "Allies warn N. Korea of zero tolerance on aggression, provocations", The Yonhap News, October 28, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/28/0401000000AEN20171028002754315.html
18 http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/28/0401000000AEN20171028003400315.html
19 "Remarks by Secretary Mattis and Min. Song at the DMZ, South Korea", The US Department of Defense, October 27, 2017, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1355968/remarks-by-secretary-mattis-and-min-song-at-the-dmz-south-korea/
20 "Press Briefing by Press Secretary Sarah Sanders", The White House, October 27, 2017, https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/10/27/press-briefing-press-secretary-sarah-sanders-10272017-27
21 "Pentagon says aircraft carriers' deployment 'assures allies'", The Yonhape News, October 27, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/27/0401000000AEN20171027002000315.html
22 "Mattis: Everyone wants peaceful solution to N.K. crisis", The Yonhap News, October 26, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/26/0401000000AEN20171026000900315.html
23 "Media Availability with Secretary Mattis en route to Thailand", US Department of Defense, October 25, 2017, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1353602/media-availability-with-secretary-mattis-en-route-to-thailand/
24 "U.S. sanctions 7 N.K. individuals, 3 entities over human rights abuses", The Yonhap News, October 26, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/27/26/0401000000AEN20171027000253315F.html
25 “Department Press Briefing - October 26, 2017”, The US Department of State, October 26, 2017, https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/dpb/2017/10/275122.htm
26 "U.S. says it has 'unquestionable' ability to defend itself from N. Korea", The Yonhap News, October 26, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/26/0401000000AEN20171026000251315.html
27 "U.S. senator tells Trump to leave N.K. policy to 'professionals'", The Yonhap News, October 25, 2015, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/25/0401000000AEN20171025000252315.html
28 "U.S. senator tells Trump to leave N.K. policy to 'professionals'", The Yonhap News, October 25, 2015, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/25/0401000000AEN20171025000252315.html
29 "Senator says sanctions are only option to rein in N. Korea", The Yonhap News, October 26, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/24/0401000000AEN20171024007000315.html
30 "In defense chiefs' talks, regional powers vow stronger ties against N. Korea", The Yonhap News, October 23, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/22/0401000000AEN20171022005153315.html
31 “U.S. focused on using diplomatic, economic pressure against N. Korea's nuke program”, The Yonhap News, October 23, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/23/7/0401000000AEN20171023003900315F.html
32 "Trump plans to bring 'biggest tax cuts ever' in US history, praises Kelly", Fox News, October 22, 2017, http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/10/22/trump-plans-to-bring-biggest-tax-cuts-ever-in-us-history-praises-kelly.html
33 "Media Availability With Secretary Mattis En Route to the Republic of the Philippines", US Department of Defense, October 22, 2017, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1350188/media-availability-with-secretary-mattis-en-route-to-the-republic-of-the-philip/
34 "Ex-U.S. president Carter wants to go to N. Korea for Trump: report", The Yonhap News, October 23, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/23/0401000000AEN20171023000500315.html
35 "Allies agree to pursue closer coordination over N.K. nukes", The Yonhap News, October 20, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/20/0401000000AEN20171020002751315.html
36 "CIA chief: N. Korea 'months' from ability to nuke U.S.", The Yonhap News, October 19, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/20/0401000000AEN20171020000500315.html
37 "S. Korea, U.S., Japan agree to seek all possible diplomatic options on N.K.", The Yonhap News, October 18, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/18/0401000000AEN20171018009254315.html
38 “U.S. official says not ruling out eventual direct talks with North Korea”, The Reuters, October 17, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles/u-s-official-says-not-ruling-out-eventual-direct-talks-with-north-korea-idUSKBN1CM06T
39 “Department Press Briefing - October 17, 2017”, The Department of State, October 17, 2017, https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/dpb/2017/10/274875.htm
40 “S. Korea confused by U.S. messaging on N. Korea: senator”, The Yonhap News, October 17, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/18/0401000000AEN20171018000200315.html
41 “Hillary Clinton says U.S. threats of war with North Korea 'dangerous, short-sighted”, The Reuters, October 17, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-missiles-clinton/hillary-clinton-says-u-s-threats-of-war-with-north-korea-dangerous-short-sighted-idUSKBN1CN03S
42 "U.S. 'most interested' in talking with N. Korea at right time: State Department", The Yonhap News, October 16, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/17/39/0401000000AEN20171017000300315F.html
43 “Tillerson on North Korea: Diplomacy will continue 'until the first bomb drops'”, CNN, October 15, 2017, http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/15/politics/rex-tillerson-north-korea-cnntv/index.html
44 “'This Week' Transcript 10-15-17: Nikki Haley, Nancy Pelosi, and Susan Collins”, ABC News, October 15, 2017, http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/week-transcript-10-15-17-nikki-haley-nancy/story?id=50482624
45 “Gen. H.R. McMaster on President Trump's new Iran strategy”, Fox News, October 15, 2017, http://www.foxnews.com/transcript/2017/10/15/gen-h-r-mcmaster-on-president-trumps-new-iran-strategy.html
46 “Remarks by President Trump Before Marine One Departure”, The White House, October 13, 2017, https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/10/13/remarks-president-trump-marine-one-departure
47 "Remarks by President Trump and Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada Before Bilateral Meeting", The White House, October 11, 2017, https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/10/11/remarks-president-trump-and-prime-minister-trudeau-canada-bilateral
48 "N.K. economy could face more severe hardship due to sanctions: Seoul official", The Yonhap News, October 30, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/30/0401000000AEN20171030008800315.html
49 "S. Korea not mulling any more THAAD deployments: foreign minister", The Yonhap News, October 30, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/30/0401000000AEN20171030008700315.html
50 "Remarks by Secretary Mattis and Min. Song at the DMZ, South Korea", The US Department of Defense, October 27, 2017, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1355968/remarks-by-secretary-mattis-and-min-song-at-the-dmz-south-korea/
51 "South Korea looks to Russia’s role in solving North Korea crisis — envoy to Russia", TASS, October 27, 2017, http://tass.com/world/972799
52 "In combat uniforms, allies' defense chiefs to press N. Korea", The Yonhap News, October 24, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/24/0401000000AEN20171024006200315.html
53 "Defense chiefs vow full support for maximum pressure on N. Korea”, The Yonhap News, October 23, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/22/0401000000AEN20171022005154315.html
54 "Moon vows to address separated families issue apart from military situation", The Yonhap News, October 22, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/22/0401000000AEN20171022002900320.html
55 "Seoul's top diplomat says N.K. quickly approaching completion of nuke armament", The Yonhap News, October 22, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/22/0401000000AEN20171022001100320.html
56 "Allies agree to pursue closer coordination over N.K. nukes", The Yonhap News, October 20, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/20/0401000000AEN20171020002751315.html
57 "S. Korea, U.S., Japan agree to seek all possible diplomatic options on N.K.", The Yonhap News, October 18, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/18/0401000000AEN20171018009254315.html
59 "S. Korea 'continuously' mulling unilateral sanctions on N. Korea", The Yonhap News, October 18, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/18/89/0401000000AEN20171018005300315F.html
60 "U.S. military options for N. Korea are last resort: envoy", The Yonhap News, October 16, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/17/69/0401000000AEN20171017001300315F.html
61 “S. Korea's defense chief visits U.S. nuclear sub”, The Yonhap News, October 14, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/14/0401000000AEN20171014003051315.html
62 “S. Korea to create environment for denuclearization talks”, The Yonhap News, October 12, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/12/0401000000AEN20171012005800315.html
63 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference", Ministry of Foreign Affairs, October 27, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1505355.shtml
64 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference", October 26, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1504977.shtml
65 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference ", Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PRC, October 23, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1503918.shtml
66 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference", Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PRC, October 20, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1503444.shtml
67 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference on October 17, 2017", Ministry of Foreign Affairs, October 17, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1502395.shtml
68 "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang's Regular Press Conference", The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PRC, October 16, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1502004.shtml
69 “Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Regular Press Conference”, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PRC, October 11, 2017, http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/2511_665403/t1500871.shtml
70 "Lavrov urges support for Russian-Chinese settlement plan for Korean Peninsula", TASS, October 20, 2017, http://tass.com/politics/971734"
71 "Situation surrounding North Korea highly dangerous, Putin says", TASS, October 19, 2017, http://tass.com/politics/971647
72 "Russian top diplomat slams Pyongyang’s violation of UN resolutions", TASS, October 16, 2017, http://tass.com/politics/970873
73 "EU’s decision on further sanctions against North Korea is ill-timed measure — Russian MP", TASS, October 16, 2017, http://tass.com/politics/971023
74 "Russia denounces North Korea’s actions to develop nuclear program", TASS, October 16, http://tass.com/politics/970877
75 "Aso ‘thanks’ North Korea for helping LDP win election", The Asahi Shimbun, October 27, 2017, http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201710270034.html
76 "Remarks by Secretary Mattis, Minister Onodera and Minister Song at the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting in the Philippines", US Department of Defense, October 24, 2017, https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1352540/remarks-by-secretary-mattis-minister-onodera-and-minister-song-at-the-asean-def/
77 "In defense chiefs' talks, regional powers vow stronger ties against N. Korea", The Yonhap News, October 23, 2017, http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/northkorea/2017/10/22/0401000000AEN20171022005153315.html
78 http://www.mofa.go.jp/press/kaiken/kaiken4e_000429.html