Trump: I Prefer Not to Use Military Option Against North Korea

Donald Trump, the President of the United States, stated on Thursday, September 7, that he prefers the North Korean crisis to be resolved diplomatically, but if a military option is employed, that day would be a "sad day" for Pyongyang. According to Reuters, during a joint press conference with the Emir of Kuwait regarding solutions to the North Korean crisis, Trump remarked that military action is certainly an option. However, is it inevitable? Nothing is inevitable. He further emphasized, referring to the military capabilities of the United States, that he would prefer not to resort to military options, but if it happens, it would be a very sad day for North Korea. The U.S. President described North Korea's approach in the recent crisis as "very bad" and stated that this trend must be "stopped." Following North Korea's sixth nuclear test, U.S. officials are now seeking to intensify sanctions against Pyongyang. Trump has emphasized that now is not the time for negotiations with North Korea, yet he insists that a diplomatic solution to this crisis is still available. The U.S. President also reiterated that the military option regarding North Korea is not America's first choice. Meanwhile, reports indicate that China agreed on Thursday to intensify sanctions against North Korea by the Security Council, although China is trying to resolve this crisis through dialogue. North Korea, which has developed its nuclear and missile program in defiance of Security Council resolutions, has declared that it will respond powerfully to any intensified sanctions against Pyongyang. Reuters reports that the U.S. is seeking new sanctions against North Korea, including oil sanctions, textile products, and freezing the assets of Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea.