UN delays vote on fresh sanctions against North Korea

United Nations Security Council delayed until today a vote on a new draft of sanctions on North Korea to punish the reclusive regime after its fourth nuclear test and rocket launch. With backing from China, the council is expected to adopt a US-drafted resolution that takes aim at North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programmes by cutting off sources



of hard currency and access to technology.

The council had initially planned to vote yesterday, but the meeting was delayed at Russia's request. The United States has described the package of measures as the toughest sanctions yet to hit North Korea, but the impact will depend largely on China, Pyongyang's sole ally and main benefactor.