Jeffery Lewis at the Daily Beast has finally found a solution to the problem with North Korea: Kim Jong Un’s port-a-potty. By bombing the dynastic successor’s port-a-potty, the US would demonstrate both precision and presence. This would be the proverbial “arrow” from Robin Hood, conveniently shooting its way into the Sheriff’s chamber.
Though the “papers” have not been “supplied” to top “brass” at press time, the premise has merit: showing that the US means business by “denying entry” for Kim to do his. While the “move” would surely cause an “emergency”, their could be new security concerns about “individual privacy”. The strategic proposal does not clarify whether or not to strike the “facility” while it is “occupied” by Kim “forces”.
As for other port-a-potties in the region, China and Taiwan are deep in their own “potty” match. China is unilaterally opening new flight routs, reportedly in violation of agreements under the International Civil Aviation Organization. New flight routs are “required” to be coordinated first, but these were not. China simply “activated” them. The routs are very close to Taiwan airspace and Taiwan has made quite the buzz about it.
The US further complicated matters with a unanimously-passed bill from the House: the Taiwan Travel Act, which allows for high-level diplomatic visits between the US and Taiwan “under respectful conditions”. The bill serves to support a shared “commitment to democracy”. The House also passed HR 3320, which directs the Secretary of State to strategize for Taiwan to regain “observer status” at the World Health Assembly, which Taiwan failed to obtain in years past.
China made its own moves, particularly with doubts on the continued purchase of US Treasury bonds. That sent tremors through the markets in multiple directions.
China
US House of Representatives passes Taiwan Travel Act | Taiwan News
Flight route stance declared to ICAO | Taipei Times
US House passes Taiwan Travel Act | Taipei Times
Will China attack Taiwan in 2018? | EJ Insight
The only game in town? Why China will keep buying US Treasury debt | SCMP
China rattles financial sabre | Nikkei
Korea
Military Quietly Prepares for a Last Resort: War With North Korea | NY Times
North Korea to attend Winter Games | Taipei Times
Canada’s navy has ‘capability’ to help enforce North Korea sanctions: Vance | Globe and Mail
A Modest Proposal for Striking North Korea | Daily Beast