world
Expert Recommends U.S. Shift from North Korea Denuclearization to Arms Control
An American expert suggested the United States abandon its focus on North Korea's denuclearization and pursue arms control measures instead. The proposal aims to achieve a 'cold peace' through dialogue and crisis management. This comes amid North Korea's advancing nuclear capabilities, as reported by Yonhap.
thediplomat.comAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
WASHINGTON, April 21 (Substrate) -- An expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies recommended that the United States move away from prioritizing North Korea's denuclearization and focus on immediate goals such as arms control. In a written interview with Yonhap News Agency, Victor Cha stated that denuclearization is unattainable currently due to past policy outcomes and North Korea's nuclear advancements.
He proposed pursuing a 'cold peace' to prevent miscalculation and escalation through dialogue.
said the U.S. should open discussions with North Korea on arms control agreements, limits on nuclear testing and missile production, crisis management mechanisms, and bans on transferring nuclear weapons or technology. He also recommended strengthening deterrence with regional allies.
He noted that North Korea has amassed 50 nuclear bombs, stockpiled enough plutonium and highly enriched uranium for 40 to 50 more, and developed nearly 20 delivery systems, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and submarine-launched ballistic missiles.
stated that previous U.S. strategies focused on preventing nuclear proliferation and achieving complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization, relying on sanctions. He said these approaches have not succeeded, given the current size and sophistication of North Korea's arsenal.
He referenced the ongoing U.S. military operation against Iran to highlight risks, noting North Korea's nuclear status could lead to retaliation against the U.S. and allies if military force were used. Cha also said sanctions' effectiveness has decreased due to actions by China and Russia.
