The U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says the US has almost ruled out renewed talks with North Korea over its nuclear program. Instead, Mr. Kerry called for strengthening U.S. military alliances in the area. He also called for increasing international pressure to counter North Korea’s behavior and disregard for human rights.

Mr. Kerry noted North Korea’s recent submarine-launched ballistic missile test as an example of a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. He also denounced the reported execution of North Korean defense minister Hyon Yong Chol with anti-aircraft guns.

Mr. Kerry said the U.S., South Korea, and Japan alliance will continue to deploy the weapons and forces needed in the area.