EU extends sanctions on North Korean targets

By Ilker Girit

ISTANBUL

The European Union on Thursday extended sanctions on North Korean individuals and entities over Pyongyang’s recent ballistic-missile activities.

The EU said nine people and four entities, including North Korea’s state-owned Foreign Trade Bank, had been added to a list of those subject to an asset freeze and travel restrictions.

"The decision brings the total number of persons under restrictive measures against the DPRK [North Korea] to 62 persons and 50 entities as listed by the UN," the EU said.

"In addition, 41 persons and seven entities are designated by the EU autonomously," the statement added.

Last month, North Korea tested two intercontinental ballistic missiles, at least one of which experts believe could reach deep into the continental U.S.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Trump vowed on Monday to increase pressure on the North over its weapons programs shortly after the UN Security Council ratcheted up economic sanctions on Pyongyang.

North Korea insisted earlier this week the strengthened sanctions would not force it to give up its nuclear weapons program.