One of the biggest news stories to dominate the headlines over Father's Day weekend was the controversial return of American Otto Warmbier after spending 17 months in a North Korean prison. Following the report that Warmbier had died after falling into a coma, Donald Trump decided to speak out, doing so yet again on social media.
Trump on Twitter
Over the last two years, Donald Trump has changed the game in American politics. From his policy proposals and executive orders, to his controversial rhetoric and social media habits, the former host of "The Apprentice" created a candidacy, and now administration, that is unlike any other before him.
The American people are split in their support of Trump, with the latest polls showing close to 60/40 in favor of those who oppose him. Despite this, Trump has continued to march to the beat of his own drummer, dealing with daily criticism in return. One of the criticisms facing the president has been how he has handled foreign policy issues. Trump has infamously praised Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past, but has usually come down hard on other world leaders. Despite appearing to offer slight praise of North Korean leader Kim Jung un at times, Trump has spoken out against the "brutality" of the regime since the release and death of Otto Warmbier, which continued during a pair of June 20 tweets.
While I greatly appreciate the efforts of President Xi & China to help with North Korea, it has not worked out. At least I know China tried!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 20, 2017
Taking to Twitter on Tuesday was Donald Trump as he addressed the current conflict with North Korea. "The U.S. once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim," Trump tweeted, doubling down on a previously released statement, while attaching a video posted to his Instagram account.
The U.S. once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim. Video: https://t.co/Rvm11ZbPk7
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 20, 2017
In a follow-up post, Donald Trump once again hit back at North Korea, while taking a light shot at China for not doing enough in the fight against Kim Jung un.
"While I greatly appreciate the efforts of President Xi & China to help with North Korea, it has not worked out," Trump tweeted, before adding, "At least I know China tried!"
Moving forward
While Donald Trump has given a vague reaction in regards to Otto Warmbier and his untimely passing, the White House has not yet revealed elaborate details about their plans on how to move forward. As expected, the administration is being pulled in different directions due to the issue surrounding North Korea being delicate on a world stage, and it's unknown when, or if, the commander in chief will decide on future action.