This archive report was first published on 9 December 2019.
December 9, 2019 - The United States, currently holding the presidency of the UN Security Council, has scheduled a session to discuss the escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
According to a State Department spokesperson, the meeting will provide a comprehensive update on recent developments, including North Korea's recent missile launches and the possibility of an escalatory provocation.
North Korea has been conducting a series of missile tests, with 13 launches taking place in the past week alone. The Security Council met behind closed doors last week to discuss these actions, with European nations condemning North Korea's behavior.
The US request for a new session shows growing alarm over North Korea's actions, particularly as the country has demanded that Washington propose a new offer by December 31 to kickstart nuclear negotiations.
North Korea has warned of countermeasures if not, and on Saturday, the country claimed to have carried out a 'very important test' that will change its 'strategic position.'
Despite President Donald Trump's previous meetings with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his description of Kim as a friend, Pyongyang is eager for concessions such as an easing of sanctions.
