The U.N. Security Council is set to approve tough new sanctions to punish North Korea for its latest nuclear test, despite warnings from Pyongyang that it will end a 60-year-old ceasefire with South Korea in response.
Diplomats say the council will vote early Thursday on the U.S.-drafted resolution, which would impose some of the strongest sanctions ever ordered by the United Nations.
South Korean foreign ministry spokesperson Cho Tai-young says Seoul is satisfied with the draft text, which appears to have the support of all 15 Security Council members.
The resolution would block any financial services or money transfers that help Pyongyang's nuclear or missile programs. It would also tighten travel bans and strengthen inspections of cargo into and out of North Korea.
Ahead of the vote, North Korea has threatened to void the 1953 armistice that ended the Korean war. It has also announced a series of military exercises to compete with drills being held by the U.S. and South Korea. Reports say Pyongyang has been taking steps to camouflage public transport and broadcast messages from citizens in favor of war.
The South has vowed swift retaliation in the event of any North Korean military action. Defense ministry spokesperson says Seoul is closely monitoring the border.