The UN Security Council has condemned a North Korean launch of a Unha-3 rocket. The Council’s president called the action “a clear violation of Security Council resolutions.” The United States said that North Korea will face consequences for the launch.
The Obama administration would not outline possible consequences saying they were going to wait to see what actions are taken by the Security Council.
China, a permanent member of the Security Council and a member with full veto powers, has been hesitant to increase sanctions against North Korea. Despite expressing their “regret” at North Korea’s decision, Chinese officials said that “restraint” is required for issuing punishment.
North Korea has claimed the launch was not military in nature but rather to launch a satellite into space. Britain has summoned the North Korean ambassador for talks and South Korean officials have called emergency meetings.
US officials believe the three stage rocket could be used to deliver a nuclear warhead.