The launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) by North Korea was a demonstration of its right to self-defense and a means to protect its state’s security, according to the country’s U.N. envoy during a rare appearance at the Security Council on Thursday.
The Security Council convened after North Korea announced the testing of its latest Hwasong-18 ICBM, claiming it as the central weapon in its nuclear strike force.
“We firmly reject and condemn the Security Council briefing by the United States and its followers,” expressed North Korea’s U.N. Ambassador Kim Song to the council.
This represents North Korea’s first participation in a council meeting on nuclear and ballistic missile programs since December 2017.
Since 2006, North Korea, also known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), has been subjected to U.N. sanctions due to its missile and nuclear programs, including a prohibition on the development of ballistic missiles.
For several years, the Security Council has been divided in its approach to dealing with Pyongyang. Russia and China, along with the United States, Britain, and France, believe that more sanctions will not be effective and advocate for easing such measures.
China and Russia blame joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea for provoking North Korea, while Washington accuses Beijing and Moscow of enabling North Korea by shielding it from further sanctions.
“Russia and China have prevented the council from speaking with one voice. With these repeated launches, Pyongyang is demonstrating its sense of empowerment,” stated Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Jeffrey DeLaurentis at the council meeting.
DeLaurentis emphasized the commitment of the U.S. to diplomacy, stating, “Publicly and privately, at the highest levels, we have urged the DPRK to engage in dialogue.” He made it clear that there are no prerequisites for engagement and that the U.S. is open to discussing any concerns raised by Pyongyang.
