Daniel R. Russel

I think that this is a classic case of Beijing seeking to exploit the inherent rights and freedoms of maritime user states in UNCLOS, without accepting the limitations and the responsibilities of UNCLOS members.

The cure for that is not just 'Buy America', it is for America to be in the game in the region diplomatically, economically, and in other respects.

The short answer, Senator Markey, is yes. We are concerned lest there be an escalatory cycle on the Korean Peninsula.

The tremendous pressure that we have applied through both multilateral and national sanctions has generated serious headwinds for the DPRK regime.

We continue to make clear to the North that we are ready at any time to engage in credible negotiations on denuclearization.

We have united the world so that North Korea is denied regular access to the international system.

We deter North Korea through a strong defensive military posture rooted in our alliances with South Korea and Japan.

Our strategy is based on deterrence, on diplomacy, and on pressure.

The President was able to point out that the United States will not compromise with our security or with the security of our allies.

We entirely agree. And I think that as frustrated and unhappy as all of us are at North Korea's ability to continue to develop its missile and its nuclear programs, the scorecard of the administration shows very significant successes in…

We have no better allies or partners than Japan and the Republic of Korea.