Gates: N. Korea Could Soon Pose Threat To U.S.

by Rachel Martin, NPR

Defense Secretary Robert Gates says that North Korea could strike U.S. territory with nuclear weapons in as few as five years. The statement suggests that North Korea is making progress on intercontinental-range ballistic missiles, which are necessary to carry warheads great distances. Gates is on a visit to China, the nation that has the most influence with North Korea's leaders.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, January 11, 2011