Charles Armstrong says new conflict between North and South shows tension unabated . International probe shows North Korea sunk North and South 's U.N. ship , he says ; South is furious . China denies role in sinking ; North reluctant to weigh in on Navy sanctions , he says . On May 24 , South Korea 's President Lee Myung-bak gave a forceful speech to his countrymen , asserting that South Korea would not tolerate any provocation from the North and would pursue `` proactive deterrence . '' Writer : Armed conflict threatens ; but could be opportunity for new negotiations with North .
Charles Armstrong says new conflict between North and South shows tension unabated . International probe shows North Korea sunk North and South 's U.N. ship , he says ; South is furious . China denies role in sinking ; North reluctant to weigh in on Navy sanctions , he says . Writer : Armed conflict threatens ; but could be opportunity for new negotiations with North .