McCain warns DPRK: Aggression will lead to 'extinction'

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John McCain on Sunday urged the United States to make clear to the DPRK that further aggression could lead to the “extinction” of the Asian country.

Speaking on CNN’s State of the Union, the 80-year-old Arizona senator said that the US needs to "make sure that Kim Jong Un knows that if he acts in an aggressive fashion, the price will be extinction.”

The DPRK conducted its sixth nuclear test on September 3 and South Korean officials have warned another intercontinental ballistic missile launch could be imminent. /AFP Photo‍

The chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee also said the redeployment of nuclear weapons in South Korea “ought to be seriously considered.”

The DPRK tested its most powerful nuclear weapon yet on September 3 and has continued to conduct missile tests, in defiance of international condemnation.

The country warned on Monday the US would pay a “due price” for a UN Security Council resolution against its latest nuclear test, as Washington presses for a vote on a draft resolution imposing more sanctions on Pyongyang.

Cancer prognosis ‘very good’

McCain's interview was his first to be broadcast live since he was diagnosed with brain cancer in July.

He insisted his health prognosis was "very good,” adding he is strong enough to preside over defense legislation debate this week.

McCain is chair of the Senator Armed Services Committee, and was the Republican candidate for US president in 2008. /AFP Photo

The 80-year-old was diagnosed with brain cancer in July after doctors discovered a brain tumor when the lawmaker underwent surgery to remove a blood clot from above his left eye.

He underwent treatment including radiation therapy while home in Arizona during the summer break.

Despite the aggressive cancer, the Republican 2008 presidential nominee said "all the results so far are excellent" and he has "more energy than ever."

Barack Obama beat John McCain to the US presidency in the 2008 election. /AFP Photo

Host Jake Tapper finished the interview by asking McCain to reflect on his career in public service.

“I hope this is not our last interview, I know a lot of people want to interview you,” Tapper said.

“A lot of people want it to be the last,” McCain quipped.

“I hope I don’t run this clip for another 50 years. But how do you want the American people to remember you?” Tapper asked.

“He served his country,” McCain replied. “And not always right, made a lot of mistakes, made a lot of errors. But served his country. And I hope, could add, honorably.”

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Source(s): AFP