Pyongyang missile crisis: NATO steps in, could it be a game changer for Kim Jong Un?

NATO military alliance head disappointed with North Korea's "reckless behaviour". Involvement of UN might act as a game changer for Kim Jong Un.

North Korea tests ballistic missile;
Kim Jong Un Reuters

The head of the NATO military alliance on Sunday, September 10, proclaimed North Korea's "reckless behavior" as global menace, primarily indicating at Kim Jong Un's Pyongyang nuclear test.

The Pyongyang nuclear crisis projects a frigid situation to the world. North Korea carried out its 6th and most powerful nuclear test a week ago, stimulating a sense of fear among neighbouring states and the leading superpowers. NATO, although not being directly involved in the crisis, has often dictated North Korea to renounce its agenda on nuclear and ballistic missiles.

"The reckless behavior of North Korea is a global threat and requires a global response and that of course also includes NATO," told Jens Stoltenberg, NATO head to BBC.

NATO's Article 5, seeks the participation of all the members of the alliance to come together for the defense of one another. Can the attack on the US Pacific territory of Guam prompt NATO's Article 5, to come to power? This probability is still under speculation.

"I will not speculate about whether Article 5 will be applied in such a situation. We are now totally focused on how can we contribute to a peaceful solution of the conflict," Stoltenberg added.

For the US, another long-range missile launch at the 69th Anniversary of North Korea's foundation on September 9 was under talks. Thoughts on the same were not further stirred and North Korea continued with its celebration to mark the day.

South Korean officials had previously warned about the possibility of another intercontinental ballistic missile launch by the North, as a reaction to the UN sanctions and further escalation of the rigidity and anxiety with the US.

British defense minister Michael Fallon too expressed his apprehension regarding the situation.

"We are doing now what we can to bring about a diplomatic solution, what we have to avoid at all costs is this spilling over into any kind of military conflict," Michael Fallon told BBC.

"The U.S. is fully entitled to defend its own territory, to defend its bases and to look after its people but this involves us, London is closer to North Korea and its missiles than Los Angeles" Fallon further suggested.

Fallon expressed his incredulity on North Korea's possession of a missile well equipped to strike London. He claimed the missile program to be moving in haste and their range getting "longer and longer".

NATO's engagement in the constant upsurge of restlessness in international relations, particularly in situations involving North Korea and the Pyongyang missile crisis might act as a game changer. Until the muddle remains unresolved, the iron curtain will prevail.

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