North Korea and the United States – An Ongoing Conflict

War has shaped the landscape of civilization since the earliest remnants of human existence. Often occurring through religious or land conflict, war is often seen as an inevitable and necessary condition. Wars like the United States Civil War and World War II evoke sentiments of patriotism and are viewed as being done for the greater good of man. However, the aftermath and destruction caused by these wars tend to go unnoticed in modern society. Since the beginning of the 20th Century The United States seems to have found itself entrenched in war. Whether the United States is protecting “American Values” or assisting another nation, the United States continuously remains involved in war.

North Korea’s recent launch of an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile last week has led to a fierce condemnation from President Trump and left many around the globe wondering when t

he United States Military will be intervene. As terrifying as the erratic North Korean Dictator Kim Jong-un appears, nothing will be as devastating to the world as nuclear war. The United States should continue its firm stance against North Korea’s missile launches while considering an alternate approach to war.

North Korea has secluded itself from virtually every other country with the major exception being China. Since the beginning of the Korean War the Chinese and North Korean relationship has led to the rise of communism and ultimate apprehension between both countries and The United States. Throughout history The United States has often condemned North Korea about the country’s nuclear program. Military action has never occurred because just like a good big brother, China has had North Korea’s back. The United States certainly seems to like war, but just not with China.

However, in recent years relations between China and The United States have grown while tension has risen between North Korea and China. In fact, according to an NPR article with historian Jonathon Pollack NPR-North Korea it seems Chinese President XI Jinping has become anxious with Kim Jong-un in charge.

The deteriorating bond between North Korea and China could severely impact The United States’ decision on military action. With China no longer behind Kim Jong-un and North Korea war almost seems unavoidable. But should it be? Here in The United States we often poke fun at our very own president. Some say he’s a lunatic, an egotistical manic or simply a fool. Yet in comparison to Kim Jong-un, President Trump looks like a boy scout. Rumors of multiple murders of family members and high-ranking military officials have done little to impact the “Supreme Leader’s” grip on North Koreans opinions.

Despite his notoriety worldwide not much is actually known about the elusive dictator. This is why I believe United States Military Intervention is wrong for North Korea. Attacking missile sights and other apparent military operations on North Korean soil will only provoke a response. King Jong-un is like a caged animal fearing for its life. His instincts are telling him fight or flight and a U.S. attack would only amplify his fight. I have no doubt Kim Jong-un is willing to showcase North Korea’s ultimate power by releasing a nuclear bomb wherever their capability allows. President Trump must understand the individual he is dealing with and look for alternate options with North Korea.

When I first heard about the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile launch from North Korea I immediately thought, “We better bomb their ass.” I envisioned President Trump eagerly waiting as his fingers slid over the destruct buttons in his bunker while giving the orders to light up North Korea. After my initial shock subsided I began to think rationally. Despite the very real and very dangerous threat that North Korea poses to its neighboring countries and the country’s deep disdain for all things American Except Dennis Rodman and Basketball The United States must recognize this war could end human existence as we know it.

Sure, we could go down the traditional route and show North Korea why the United States Military is the greatest in the world. We could eviscerate the legacy of Kim Jong-un and end his family’s almost 70-year reign. But what if we miss? What if U.S. intelligence is bad and Kim Jong-un already has nuclear weapons capable of reaching U.S. allies like Japan or even worse The United States’ mainland? Is war worth it if there’s nowhere left to go? Of course not, and that is exactly why President Trump MUST consider alternate options to war.

The United States must keep an open dialogue with North Korea and China during this time. I’m not saying the U.S. needs to be allies with either, but strong consideration should be taken before relying on war.

I believe President Trump should consider mediation between The U.S., China and North Korea on neutral soil. Perhaps a country like Switzerland would be willing to host. The last thing The United States should do is provoke and attack North Korea. The fate of humanity depends on you President Trump.