SEOUL, South Korea: The US ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized on Wednesday that sanctions remain an “effective tool” to deter North Korea and its nuclear ambitions, despite recent challenges in global enforcement of UN sanctions.
Thomas-Greenfield’s visit to South Korea comes as part of efforts to maintain pressure on Pyongyang, especially after Russia’s recent UN veto, which effectively halted UN monitoring of violations related to sanctions imposed on Kim Jong Un’s regime.
Both Seoul and Washington have raised concerns about Kim’s alleged weapon shipments to Russia, potentially in exchange for Moscow’s assistance with North Korea’s satellite program.
In the past year, North Korea conducted a record number of missile tests, defying UN sanctions that have been in place since 2006, despite warnings from the US and South Korea. In 2022, North Korea declared itself an “irreversible” nuclear weapons state.
During her visit to Seoul, Thomas-Greenfield highlighted that North Korea “does not want sanctions” because they impede its objectives. She stressed that sanctions serve as an effective deterrent against countries pursuing paths similar to North Korea’s.
However, Thomas-Greenfield pointed out challenges in sanction enforcement, particularly by countries like Russia and Iran, which she criticized for inadequate implementation of sanctions.
Despite setbacks caused by Russia’s veto, Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the importance of finding solutions to continue monitoring North Korea’s activities.
“We cannot allow the important work conducted by the panel of experts to lapse,” she underscored.
Thomas-Greenfield expressed commitment to collaboration with Seoul, Tokyo, and other partners to explore innovative approaches for sustained monitoring activities.
“The veto of panel of experts does not nullify the sanctions regime,” she clarified. “We must persevere in finding ways to maintain effective reporting and uphold the sanctions regime.”
During her visit to the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea, Thomas-Greenfield urged Pyongyang to engage in dialogue and return to negotiations.
She reiterated that diplomatic efforts, in coordination with regional allies, are essential to address challenges posed by North Korea’s nuclear program and ensure compliance with international sanctions.
