The UN Security Council unanimously voted to boost sanctions on Kim JOng Un’s regime, with its profitable textile exports now banned and fuel supplies capped, prompting a traditionally defiant threat of retaliation against the United States.
Monday’s decision followed North Korea’s sixth and largest nuclear test this month, and was the ninth such resolution since 2006 unanimously adopted by the 15-member Security Council over the rogue state’s ballistic missile and nuclear programmes.
A tougher initial US draft was weakened to win the support of China, Pyongyang’s main ally and trading partner, and Russia, both of which hold veto power in the council.
Prsident Trump told reporters at the start of a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak that he was pleased Malaysia no longer did business with North Korea, before adding that he had just discussed the UN vote with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.
He said: “We think it’s just another very small step, not a big deal.
“I don’t know if it has any impact, but certainly it was nice to get 15-to-nothing vote.
Without elaborting any further, he added: “But those sanctions are nothing compared to what ultimately will have to happen.”
More to follow.