[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 83 (Friday, May 28, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E983]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




EXPRESSING SYMPATHY TO FAMILIES OF SOUTH KOREAN SEAMEN KILLED BY NORTH 
                                 KOREA

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 24, 2010

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise in sympathy with the families of 
those killed in the sinking of the Republic of Korean ship (ROKS) 
Cheonan. I stand in solidarity with the people of the Republic of Korea 
in the aftermath of this tragic incident. However, I have serious 
concerns with language in H. Res. 1382. While it appropriately 
expresses sympathy to the families of those killed in the attack, it 
also appears to express support for possible military action against 
North Korea.
  North Korea announced yesterday that it is severing all relations 
with South Korea, further exasperating an already contentious 
relationship. This resolution ``urges the United States'' and ``its 
allies . . . to take appropriate actions in response to the sinking of 
the ROKS Cheonan and other hostile acts of North Korea.'' The 
resolution also ``urges the international community to provide all 
necessary support to the Republic of Korea as the Government of the 
Republic of Korea prepares to respond to the actions committed by North 
Korea, which led to the sinking of the ROKS Cheonan.'' State Department 
officials, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, have also made 
public statements vowing that the attack will not go unanswered.
  Congress and the Administration can better express support for the 
people of the Republic of Korea by recommitting to promoting dialogue 
between the two nations. The expression of congressional support for a 
possible military response to North Korea's actions can only serve to 
heighten the likelihood of a military confrontation. Military action in 
retaliation to North Korea's attack on the South Korean ship can only 
result in the further loss of life. I believe strongly in the power and 
necessity of diplomacy. The United States has a responsibility to 
utilize its unique role as an ally of South Korea to bring the nation 
closer to resolution with North Korea.

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