North Korea Nuclear Test Draws Global Criticism

In summary, North Korea claimed to have successfully tested a nuclear weapon, drawing global criticism. Russia, another country with a history of antagonism with North Korea, estimated the blast's force at 10 to 20 kilotons, far higher than other estimates. The claim and subsequent analysis is likely a tactic to increase pressure on the United States and Japan, two countries North Korea has threatened war with in the past.
  • #1
signerror
174
3
North Korean Nuclear Claim Draws Global Criticism (NY Times)

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New York Times said:
Martin B. Kalinowski, a nuclear expert at the University of Hamburg, said a seismic magnitude of 4.7 corresponded to a nuclear explosive yield of about three to eight kilotons of high explosives, with the most likely yield being four kilotons.

...But Alexander Drobyshevsky, a Russian Defense Ministry spokesman, offered a different estimate, saying that the force of the blast, which the ministry confirmed occurred at 9:54 a.m. local time in northeastern North Korea, was 10 to 20 kilotons, the RIA-Novosti news agency reported. It was unclear what information the defense ministry based its estimate on. Russia estimated the force of the 2006 blast at 5 to 15 kilotons, far higher than other estimates at the time.
 
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  • #2
Bolton gave a heads up on this five days ago.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124277648950937029.html"
Now, Kim is poised to succeed again by following precisely the same script. In April, Pyongyang launched a Taepodong-2 missile, and National Security Council official Gary Samore recently confirmed that a second nuclear test is likely on the way. The North is set to try two U.S. reporters for "hostile acts." The state-controlled newspaper calls America "a rogue and a gangster." Kim recently expelled international monitors from the Yongbyon nuclear complex. And Pyongyang threatens to "start" enriching uranium -- a capacity it procured long ago...
 
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  • #3
They've also been firing (short-range) missiles towards Japan.

It might be worth pointing out to them that they are a nuclear power who is technically still at war with an ally of the United States. There is a non-trivial chance that their attempted nuclear extortion will instead result in Pyongyang becoming a sea of molten glass and steel.
 
  • #4
There is a non-trivial chance that their attempted nuclear extortion will instead result in Pyongyang becoming a sea of molten glass and steel.

Haha, as opposed to its current status as a sea of rust-covered steel and rotten wood!
 
  • #5
ExactlySolved said:
Haha, as opposed to its current status as a sea of rust-covered steel and rotten wood!
Because it is a backward country do you mean that it is no threat to anyone?
 

What is the significance of North Korea's nuclear test?

The nuclear test conducted by North Korea is significant because it demonstrates the country's continued pursuit of nuclear weapons, despite international sanctions and pressure to denuclearize. It also raises concerns about the potential threat North Korea poses to global security and stability.

How does the international community respond to North Korea's nuclear test?

The international community has strongly condemned North Korea's nuclear test and has called for immediate action to address the situation. Many countries have imposed sanctions on North Korea and are working to find a diplomatic solution to the issue.

What are the potential consequences of North Korea's nuclear test?

The potential consequences of North Korea's nuclear test include further escalation of tensions and potential military conflict, as well as the possibility of other countries in the region feeling compelled to develop their own nuclear weapons as a deterrent.

Why does North Korea continue to conduct nuclear tests?

North Korea's nuclear program is seen as crucial to the country's national security and its leader Kim Jong Un's grip on power. The regime sees nuclear weapons as a way to deter external threats and maintain its status as a global player.

What is the role of China in addressing North Korea's nuclear test?

China is North Korea's closest ally and main trading partner, making it a key player in addressing the situation. However, China also has its own interests in the region and has been hesitant to impose harsh sanctions on North Korea, leading to tensions with other countries who are calling for a stronger stance against the regime.

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