U.S. Deployment of THAAD Anti-Missile System to South Korea Expedited

The United States, plans to hasten the setting-up of the THAAD anti-missile system to South Korea. A high-ranking US diplomat for the region said the tempo of North Korean missile tests prompted the decision. He also said that Washington intends to commence deployment “as soon as possible”.

Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel mentioned ongoing discussions between the US and allies such as the European Union. The deliberations centered on refusing international banking access to North Korea due to their missile and nuclear tests.

According to him, the Pentagon handles matters concerning the timetable of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system’s deployment.

He also added, “Given the accelerating pace of North Korea’s missile tests, we intend to deploy on an accelerated basis. I would say as soon as possible.”

To the question of whether they consider the plan “a done deal”, his answer was, “yes.”

Meanwhile, Commander Gary Ross of the Pentagon declared that installation of THAAD would proceed “as soon as feasible.” He did not go into details however.

China fervently disagrees with THAAD deployment. On the other hand, experts say that the country’s support for sanctions on North Korea would be crucial.

Increased cooperation with China

Russel said the US and its partners gained a lot of progress in collaboration with China on sanctions. All due to mutual distress on North Koreas intensified nuclear program. Although “an awful lot more” improvement in China’s support would be appreciated.

He stated that they gained “a very constructive and honest candid set of ongoing conversations” with China regarding new sanctions. And further: “I hope you will see, as one of the products of that, real headway in the discussions.”

About the financial aspect of the sanctions Russel said, “We are in discussions with our partners, including the EU, about tightening the application of sanctions and pressure, including and particularly to deny North Korea access to the international banking infrastructure.”

The US, Japan and South Korea also plan on interrupting North Korea’s proceeds from coal and citizens working abroad. Additional cooperative efforts are being discussed.

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