Trump Granted Pentagon Chief Authority to Shoot Down North Korean Missiles, Woodward’s Book Claims

WASHINGTON: Former President Donald Trump had given his Defense Secretary the power to shoot down a North Korean intercontinental ballistic missile if it posed a threat to the United States, a revelation made in a new book by journalist Bob Woodward. According to Yonhap News Agency, Woodward's book titled "War" details that Trump had delegated this critical military authority to then Defense Secretary James Mattis. The book highlights the heightened concerns Mattis had regarding the potential for escalated conflict with North Korea. Woodward describes Mattis's anxiety over the possibility of nuclear engagement to the extent that he would sleep in gym clothes to be ready to manage a crisis at any moment. Woodward's account includes direct quotes from Trump, reflecting a dismissive attitude towards the nuclear threat posed by North Korea. Trump is quoted as saying, "If he shoots, he shoots," in reference to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. This attitude, Woodward suggests, was alarming to Trump's national sec urity advisers due to its potential implications on international diplomacy and security. The book further explores Mattis's personal responses to the tensions, including his visits to a Washington cathedral to pray over the decisions he might have had to make concerning the use of nuclear weapons. Additionally, Woodward delves into Trump's interactions with other global leaders and his apparent admiration for authoritarian figures like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The journalist also touches upon sensitive international relations topics, such as a classified report presented to President Joe Biden regarding the defense ties between Russia and North Korea, which Woodward claims has caused concern among Chinese officials. Moreover, Woodward discusses North Korea's ongoing missile and nuclear development programs, suggesting that while Kim Jong-un has not yet perfected the deployment of nuclear-armed ICBMs capable of reaching the U.S., the regime is making significant str ides towards this capability. The implications of such advancements are considered substantial, particularly in light of the potential support from Russia.