Trump and Kim Are Deliberately Fanning The Flames Of Conflict
The beginning of the week was very uneasy. After US strategic bombers, last Sunday, followed an unusual route along the shores of North Korea, and Pyongyang wondered if it was war or not. For DPRK this issue is very relevant, because recently Trump, speaking at the UN General Assembly personally insulted Kim Jong-un and threatened to completely destroy North Korea.
It is clear that when after such words strategic bombers are heading towards you, there is something to think about. So, on Monday...
Ri Yong-ho, North Korean Foreign Minister: "Since the US declared war on our country, we have every right to take countermeasures, including the right to shoot down US strategic bombers, even if they are still outside the airspace of the country".
On Tuesday, Trump adds fuel to the fire. Donald Trump: "We are totally prepared for the second option, not a preferred option. But if we take that option, it would be devastating, I guarantee it, devastating for North Korea. The second option means the military option".
As you can see, the United States brought the situation to the point, when a nuclear war around North Korea could begin at any moment, while President Trump appeared totally inept in settling the problem. He appears to have nothing but threats, insults, and unilateral sanctions. He has no diplomacy per Se, the basis of which is negotiations.
Beijing voices its stance. On Friday, the Chinese authorities order their citizens to close all joint ventures with the North Koreans before January 10th of next year. Since China accounts for more than 90% of North Korea's foreign trade, what happened is crucial for Pyongyang.
China seems to have used its influence and done what Trump has urged to do in his tweets. But it's not exactly that. I'd say, it's far otherwise.
Beijing press politely emphasizes that it is not about China's unilateral steps. In general, China is against unilateral steps. But, it's meticulously following the UN Security Council resolution. And here it is, the path that everyone should take. Very informative.