Resolving Korea’s Nuclear Crisis: Tough Choices for China

Authors

Howard M. Krawitz, Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University

Files

Description

Clearly, Washington and Beijing do not see eye to eye on North Korea. From the U.S. perspective, North Korea is a rogue state (one that is still technically a U.S. enemy, to boot), with an announced intent to develop further its nuclear capability and acquire nuclear weapons—in spite of formal agreements in which Pyongyang promised not to engage in such pursuits. Pyongyang’s rhetoric and behavior highlight its willingness to use nuclear blackmail as a tool for achieving its aims. It has heightened tensions by implying that it might export nuclear weapons or fissile material if its needs are not met. Summed up, North Korea poses a tangible, real-time threat to U.S. allies in East Asia and to U.S. national security interests.

Document Type

Policy Brief

Publication Date

8-2003

Publication

Strategic Forum

Publisher

National Defense University Press

City

Washington, DC

Recommended Citation

Krawitz, Howard M., "Resolving Korea’s Nuclear Crisis: Tough Choices for China" (2003). Strategic Forums. 111.
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/strategic-forums/111