‘Apocalyptic scenario’ possible on Korean Peninsula: Russian diplomat

A Russian diplomat on Monday forewarned of an “apocalyptic” situation on the Korean peninsula.

“A scenario of the apocalyptic development of the situation on the Korean Peninsula exists and we cannot turn our blind eye to it,” said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov at a conference in South Korea, as reported by Russia’s Tass News Agency.

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“I hope that a common sense, pragmatism and an instinct of self-preservation would prevail among our partners to exclude such negative scenario.”

Morgulov in the remarks called for a dialogue with North Korea over its nuclear ambitions, arguing that placing pressure on Pyongyang will not yield the desired results.

“We have told North Korea many times that for us [its] nuclear status is unacceptable,” Morgulov reportedly said.

“We continue this work with the North Korean counterparts presenting to them our position.”

The Trump administration has urged China to pressure North Korea specifically over its nuclear program.

Pyongyang in September said it successfully tested a miniaturized hydrogen bomb that can be placed an intercontinental ballistic missile. North Korea later that month fired a ballistic missile over Japan.

During President Trump’s recent 12-day trip to Asia, the president exchanged insults with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

“Why would Kim Jong-un insult me by calling me ‘old,’ when I would NEVER call him ‘short and fat?’ Oh well, I try so hard to be his friend – and maybe someday that will happen!” Trump tweeted.