Mattis Warns North Korea to Avoid Actions That Would Lead to the ‘Destruction of Its People’

James Mattis / Getty

 

Secretary of Defense James Mattis on Wednesday called on North Korea to stand down in its pursuit of nuclear weapons or risk taking actions that would “lead to the end of its regime and the destruction of its people.”

“The United States and our allies have the demonstrated capabilities and unquestionable commitment to defend ourselves from an attack,” Mattis said in a statement. “Kim Jong Un should take heed of the United Nations Security Council’s unified voice, and statements from governments the world over, who agree the DPRK poses a threat to global security and stability.”