Jenkins: US, China should put pressure on North Korea to stop missile tests

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Third District Congressmen Evan Jenkins (R-W.Va.) says the latest missile test launched by North Korea was “unsettling,” “disturbing” and put American lives at risk.

“The idea that North Korea has an intercontinental ballistic missile that may be able to carry a nuclear warhead that now is proven able to reach the shores of our country and Alaska is just unthinkable, unacceptable and must be stopped,” Jenkins told MetroNews Wednesday during a stop at the Veterans Affairs’ Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Kanawha County.

The missile, ordered by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un Tuesday, reached an altitude of more 2,800 kilometers (1,700 miles) and traveled 933 kilometers (580 miles) for almost 40 minutes before hitting the Sea of Japan. Experts said the range could have reached up to 6,000 kilometers — putting Alaska and even Seattle, Washington at risk.

The United States and South Korea responded to the North Wednesday by conducting a ballistic missile drill.

Jenkins said China needs to put pressure on North Korea to stop its missile tests. He’s confident the Trump Administration will continue to do the same.

“I don’t think anybody can deny that we have been much more assertive in world affairs in recent months under the Trump Administration, so I would expect the Trump Administration to continue with that strong position,” he said.

Back in April, Trump issued air strikes on a Syrian airbase alleging Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was responsible for a chemical attack that left 80 people dead, including children.

“I think the administration is showing a toughness, showing a level of resolve that we haven’t seen in a number of years,” Jenkins said.

But several lawmakers demanded a stronger response from Trump after reading tweets from the President following Tuesday’s missile launch.

Congress is addressing these global issues in Washington, D.C., Jenkins assured.

“We, in Congress, have passed actions, legislation and continue to work on pushing for sanctions on North Korea — trying to get them in line,” he said.

China and Russia leaders have said they oppose any threats made by North Korea.





More News

News
UMWA to fight planned Pennsylvania coal mine closure, 700 mining jobs at risk
Cumberland Mine less than 40 miles from Morgantown.
March 28, 2024 - 2:23 pm
News
Bridge collapse having an impact on West Virginia coal shipments
About third of the coal mined in northern West Virginia is shipped out of the presently idled Port of Baltimore
March 28, 2024 - 1:18 pm
News
Charleston animal shelter seeks more donations, fosters following U-Haul crash
The corner roof of the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association building was stabilized Thursday morning.
March 28, 2024 - 12:41 pm
News
Controversial unemployment bill becomes law without governor's signature
The bill freezes employer contributions and freezes benefits for people who lose their jobs.
March 28, 2024 - 12:20 pm