The U.S. government is continuing to exert pressure on Beijing over its relationship with North Korea, as a top military official spoke out on the subject during a visit to Seoul. From VOA:
Admiral Mike Mullen said Wednesday in Seoul that China has more influence over North Korea than any other country, but that Beijing appears unwilling to use that influence. He said China’s “tacit approval of Pyongyang’s brazenness” has left neighboring countries asking what moves by North Korea will be next.
Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, made his remarks at a news conference with South Korea’s top military officer, General Han Min-koo.
China has rejected U.S. criticism it is enabling North Korea to behave aggressively, saying such charges are irresponsible.
Tensions have risen in the region since late last month, when North Korea fired artillery on a South Korean island and Seoul’s forces returned fire. Four South Koreans died.
See also a report from the New York Times and this video from AP:
