Donald Trump’s threat during his UN speech on September 19, to totally destroy North Korea was in bad taste.
Kim Jong Un quickly responded by calling Trump a mad man and will make him pay for his aggressive speech.
It is clear that Trump’s tough talking worsened the situation. Japan is already organising missile defence drills for its people, just in case they are targeted.
Russia and China can play an important part in defusing the escalating tensions but, as the Chinese leader said, he will not back the side that starts the confrontation. Which is a stern warning for the North Korean leader, especially now that he is also considering testing an H-bomb in the Pacific.