The situation on the Korean peninsula threatens to turn into a nuclear war. The unexpectedly opened prospect of direct talks between the DPRK and the US gives hope for a peaceful solution to the crisis, but this is a difficult question, and to understand it, it is necessary to look into the past.
We decided, as briefly as possible - in 300 words - to answer the main questions about the crisis around the DPRK and its nuclear weapons.
Why does North Korea need nuclear weapons?
The Korean peninsula was split shortly after the end of World War II, and the communist north created an authoritarian system of Stalinist type.
This system has found itself in international isolation and insists that nuclear weapons remain the only deterrent force that prevents the outside world from destroying it.
Can it carry out a nuclear attack?
North Korea has already conducted six nuclear tests. In one case, she claims, a hydrogen bomb was tested. The North also insists that it has developed a nuclear bomb, compact enough to be carried by a long-range missile. However, this statement is not supported by anything.
What is known about the nuclear test site that Kim Jong-un proposed to close
North Korea announced the termination of nuclear tests and the closure of the test site
North Korea called the new UN sanctions an act of war
-North Korea also has a ballistic missile, which, according to experts, is able to reach the territory of the United States, the main enemy of Pyongyang.
In response, the United Nations, the United States and the European Union step-by-step imposed ever more stringent sanctions against North Korea.
Can not we simply eliminate the threat?
Rockets of North Korea are aimed at South Korea and Japan. A preventive strike against Pyongyang can cause a devastating response. In addition, many peaceful inhabitants of North Korea will become victims of the conflict.
In addition, the possibility of regime collapse greatly worries China, the largest Asian power. The unification of Korea frightens Beijing by the fact that US troops currently stationed in South Korea may be directly at the Chinese border.
Can we call the recent turn of events unprecedented?
All previous attempts to agree with the regime on the assistance program in exchange for disarmament were in vain.
However, in January the North decided to direct talks with Seoul, the North Korean team came to the Olympic Games in South Korea, and in April the leaders of the two countries held a historic summit.
Pyongyang also suggested that the US hold direct talks, to which Donald Trump responded with consent. Kim Jong-un also ordered the suspension of nuclear and missile tests. Now everyone expects a meeting of the leaders of the United States and North Korea, which is to be held on June 12 in Singapore.
Until recently, it seemed impossible - and regardless of its outcome will be historical.