Bolton rules out US preemptive strike on N. Korea: Yonhap

By Park Sae-jin Posted : November 17, 2016, 08:16 Updated : November 17, 2016, 08:16

[Yonhap News Photo]


John Bolton, considered a top candidate for secretary of state under the incoming administration of Donald Trump, said Wednesday the US won't launch a preemptive strike against North Korea, according to a South Korean lawmaker.

Bolton, who served as a top nonproliferation official under George W. Bush and is known for hawkish views on North Korea and other security threats, made the remark when he met with a group of South Korean lawmakers, according to Rep. Na Kyung-won of the ruling Saenuri Party.

Bolton even said there is "zero" chance of a U.S. preemptive attack on the North, according to Na. "He said he's well aware of how much price South Korea should pay in that case," the lawmaker said.

"He said the North Korean nuclear issue is being considered a top issue of concern due to the North's nuclear tests and missile launches."

Bolton also stressed the need for thorough preparedness against attacks from the North, she said. "He said he understands the seriousness of the North Korean nuclear issue, and there should be more discussions with China," Na said.

Bolton also reacted negatively to holding talks with the North, she said. "He said he has no intention of sitting there (at the negotiating table). He said he's not interested in holding talks," Na said.

The meeting offered a glimpse into Bolton's views of the North Korea problem at a time when he is considered a top candidate for Trump's first secretary of state, along with former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Sen. Bob Corker and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich.

(Yonhap)
기사 이미지 확대 보기
닫기