Congressional Republicans Emphasize Support for Missile Defense as North Korea Continues Test-Firings

Strategic Insights -

Congressional Republicans stepped up their support for the US missile defense system in the face of North Korea's latest test-firings, highlighting the party's commitment to expanding the program's budget and scope. As the North Korean leadership's actions continue to escalate, Republicans argue that an effective missile defense system is crucial for protecting US cities from potential threats. Meanwhile, Democrats emphasize the need for diplomatic talks to resolve the crisis.

Key Takeaways:

  • Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) sent a letter to President Bush highlighting the Senate's unanimous approval of $145 million more in funding for the US missile defense system, exceeding the Pentagon's initial request.
  • House Armed Services Committee Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-CA) stated that "if diplomacy doesn't work, it's all physics," emphasizing the need for a missile defense system to protect US cities from potential threats.
  • Sen. George Allen (R-VA) emphasized the importance of an effective missile defense system, citing the need to intercept missiles launched from North Korea and Iran.
  • Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Sen. Joe Biden (D-DE) called North Korean leader Kim Jong-il a "paper tiger," stating that the North Korean regime lacks the capacity to do short-term damage to the US or Japan.
  • Rep. Tom Lantos (D-CA) emphasized the difficulty of understanding Pyongyang's intentions, stating that their actions are "frighteningly naive."
  • Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO) urged a diplomatic solution to the crisis, stating that the US should keep a close eye on Pyongyang's actions.

Statistics:

  • $145 million: The amount of additional funding approved by the Senate for the US missile defense system.
  • 2 sites: The number of interceptors already positioned in Alaska and California.
  • 3 sites planned: The number of planned interceptors, including one in Europe, with the goal of enabling the US to intercept a missile launched from Iran.

Sources:

  • Washington Times, "Congressional Republicans tout party's support for missile defense"