President Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in agreed Monday to put as much pressure as they can on North Korea in the wake of that country’s hydrogen bomb test over the weekend.
“Both leaders underscored the grave threat that North Korea’s latest provocation poses to the entire world,” according to a White House statement after the two leaders talked by phone.
“The two leaders agreed to maximize pressure on North Korea using all means at their disposal,” it said. “They also pledged to strengthen joint military capabilities.”
The statement said Trump agreed in principle to deeper joint military cooperation.
“President Trump gave his in-principle approval to South Korea’s initiative to lift restrictions on their missile payload capabilities,” it said.
“President Trump also provided his conceptual approval for the purchase of many billions of dollars’ worth of military weapons and equipment from the United States by South Korea.”
The White House said Trump also spoke with German Chancellor Angela Merkel about North Korea.
“The two leaders condemned North Korea’s continued reckless and dangerous behavior and reaffirmed the importance of close coordination at the United Nations,” it said.
“President Trump noted that this latest provocation only serves to increase the international community’s resolve to counter North Korea’s prohibited activities,” it said. “All options to address the North Korean threat are on the table.”
