Diplomatic drive on to stop North Korean missile test

Opponents of a possible North Korean long-range missile test stepped up a diplomatic drive to stop the launch today, issuing a barrage of warnings to the reclusive nation and threatening retaliation if it went ahead.

North Korea has taken apparent moves toward test-firing a missile believed capable of reaching the US, putting the region on alert. Pyongyang was silent on the launch, but vowed to bolster its military deterrent, in comments carried through its state news agency.