An accident, then war with North Korea? by Wes Clark
What should be done?
First, ensure that the U.S. deterrent is capable and credible. This requires that we have the capability to both defend ourselves and strike back, and that we make it as clear as possible to the North Koreans our resolve to use these capabilities if challenged.
Second, assure our South Korean allies that we will stand with them, so they can afford politically to be restrained.
Third, strike a balance between demonstrating resolve in public and, simultaneously, working to reduce tensions. North Korea must always be given an "out" from the box of escalating threats it has constructed, but the out must not involve U.S.-South Korean concessions, apologies or any signs of hesitancy, weakness or lack of resolve. This requires artful balancing of military demonstrations, deployments, statements and behind-the-scenes dialogue with China and others in the region.
The odds are that there will be no conflict. Good odds. The U.S. and South Korean leadership is experienced. And so are those behind the young leader in the North. This is a familiar game, but one whose risks far outweigh any actual benefits to the North.
http://www.cnn.com/2013/04/05/opinion/clark-north-korea/
pacalo
(24,721 posts)He would have been the perfect Secretary of Defense.
elleng
(131,073 posts)pacalo
(24,721 posts)He's usually asked, and usually speaks out. Happy to see him.
premium
(3,731 posts)Gen. Wesley Clark should have been the SecDef, he is cool, calm, and collected, he's spot on with regards to N. Korea.
elleng
(131,073 posts)jimlup
(7,968 posts)If you don't want to be invaded be sure to develop nuclear weapons. I mean I understand that there are lots of subtle issues in both cases still I think it is interesting that we are openly talking of attacking Iran yet the idea of doing so to N. Korea is unthinkable as we understand that it would be a trip wire to an unacceptable conflict.
Not suggesting a solution, just pointing out the problem and the difference in policy which is striking.