US wants tougher sanctions against North Korea after long-range missile launch

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas Greenfield pointed out to the Security Council a 2017 resolution obligating member states to “modernize and strengthen the sanctions regime” if North Korea launches an ICBM. “That’s exactly what happened,” said Thomas Greenfield. So now is the time to take action.”

The US ambassador to the United Nations announced that the United States will present a draft resolution to “modernize and tighten” sanctions against North Korea. It did not provide further details.

China and Russia

Previous nuclear launches and tests have already led to tough international sanctions against North Korea. They mainly focus on trade. In 2017, the United Nations Security Council banned 90% of refined oil exports to North Korea.

After the recent test with a long-range missile, the United States already announced its own sanctions on Thursday against two Russian companies, Russian and North Korean officials and a North Korean enterprise. It is not clear exactly what they are accused of and how Russia would have participated in the test.

China and Russia may oppose tougher UN sanctions. On the contrary, these countries are pressing for sanctions relief to improve the humanitarian situation in North Korea and encourage Pyongyang to return to the negotiating table.