Donald Trump's National Security advisor refuses to rule out military action against North Korea

One of Donald Trump’s closest advisers has warned that a military option will not be ruled out in dealing with the threat posed by North Korea.

H.R McMaster, the US National Security advisor, starkly warned that the possibility of military action could not be discounted.

Speaking during a security conference with Homeland Security Chief John Kelly, he said: ‘The threat is much more immediate now and so it’s clear that we can’t repeat the same approach – failed approach of the past.’

His comments came only a day before President Trump is scheduled to meet new South Korean president Moon Jae-in to discuss the threat posed by the secretive hermit state.

Ahead of the talks, Moon said: ‘Together we will achieve the dismantlement of North Korea’s nuclear program, peace on the Korean Peninsula and eventually peace in Northeast Asia.’

Last week, President Trump denounced North Korea as a ‘brutal regime’ after the death of Otto Warmbier – the US student who died after being released from detainment in North Korea.

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He said: ‘There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Otto’s family and friends, and all who loved him.

‘The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim.’

In response, North Korea labelled the US President a ‘psychopath.’