Today, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) released the following statement on a report that North Korea has developed a miniaturized nuclear warhead that can fit inside its missiles:

“If true, this report confirms that North Korea is on the cusp of becoming a full nuclear-armed state, making it a threat to not only American security interests and allies, but to the homeland.

“Sanctions passed by Congress and recently signed by President Trump will deny North Korea resources to finance its illicit weapons activities. And I commend the State Department for working with the international community – including China – through the United Nations to ratchet up sanctions enforcement on Kim Jong-un’s regime.

“But sanctions alone are insufficient. We need an unyielding, long-term strategy to check North Korean aggression and prevent an escalation of hostilities that would have devastating consequences for thousands of American service members stationed in Asia, millions of civilians, and the global economy.

“President Trump’s Twitter diplomacy confuses our allies, provokes our enemies, and neglects the pressing need for a comprehensive strategy to deal with North Korea.

“I urge him to work with leaders in Congress, the military, and our regional partners to develop a smart, strong strategy involving diplomatic pressure, advanced missile defense, and nuclear modernization that will help avert a devastating conflict with North Korea and keep America and our service members safe.”