So, North Korea finally tested their nuclear weapons program. So I guess this is how it all starts. I didn’t think it would come so soon, so quickly. This test basically means that arms race will start up again in Asia (Nuclear Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, most likely) since it seems like there’s nobody - not even UN - who can leverage against North Korea.
What I find most surprising, though, is that nuclear test will result in almost certain economic sanctions against North Korea - not even China could veto that after a test directed against their stated wishes. What could North Korea do without aid and supplies from China? Especially going into a winter where fuel consumption would rise?
With Bush in the White House, new right-leaning prime minister in charge of Japan, China that’s increasingly getting tired of North Korea’s antics, and inept president who nevertheless has to answer to growing concerns from the citizens of South Korea… I can’t think of too many exit strategies for North Korea. I just pray that none of that involves atomic weapons being used anywhere in the region.
On a completely different note, I watched The Departed today - it was quite excellent, though I’ve been told the original Infernal Affairs (on which The Departed is based on) is even better.
