The west is rebuffing North Korea’s call for bilateral food aid, saying any extra shipments must go through the UN and that Pyongyang must allow tougher inspections to stop food going to soldiers.
North Korean diplomats have in recent weeks been seeking direct help from embassies worldwide. One diplomat said Pyongyang had sought 100,000 tonnes of food aid from the European Union, but EU, US and Australian officials all insist any aid must be part of a multilateral effort.
Western diplomats admit there are dangers in denying Pyongyang’s requests. Several reckoned North Korea could resume shock tactics – such as commando raids or terrorist attacks against South Korean targets – if it felt snubbed.