Oh, the political muscle-flexing.

Because of North Korea’s aggressive pursuit of nuclear weaponry over the last couple of years, a more forceful approach may be needed.

Enter the newly named Defense Secretary James Mattis.

Mattis issued a firm warning to North Korea, saying that the U.S. would use “effective and overwhelming” retaliation, in the event that North Korea suddenly felt sassy and attempted to use their nuclear weapons on their southern neighbors.

According to Reuters, Mattis issued the warning during his two-day visit to the South Korea, where he sought to reassure U.S. allies in the region that President Donald Trump‘s administration is fully committed to their security.

“Any attack on the United States, or our allies, will be defeated, and any use of nuclear weapons would be met with a response that would be effective and overwhelming,” the Defense secretary said.
“North Korea continues to launch missiles, develop its nuclear weapons program and engage in threatening rhetoric and behavior,” Mattis added.

The U.S. have made plans to build a nuclear defense program in South Korea – a move China and Russia are not happy with.

South Korea’s defense minister Han Min-koo says they are pushing forward with their plans to build the system, Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), later in the year.

“Faced with a current severe security situation, Secretary Mattis’ visit to Korea … also communicates the strongest warning to North Korea,” Defense Minister Han Min-koo said.

And every nation should have the right to safeguard themselves from threats.

What a novel concept.