A new Gallup poll reveals that a majority of Americans think the US should focus on diplomatic solutions to respond to the North Korean missile tests earlier this month, rather than using an air attack or ground forces against the Pyongyang regime. Only 9 percent of those surveyed in the July 6-9 poll believe that launching air or missile strikes would be an option, while 72 percent believe the US should exert diplomatic pressure and use sanctions on the North Koreans. The recent launches have done little to change Americans views of North Korea(with one in every five surveyed saying the North is an immediate threat to the US, an identical result from a poll from November 2004.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.