Since North Korea's nuclear test Feb. 12, the West's reaction has been as predictable as it will be ineffective: lots of hand-wringing, calls for more sanctions, warnings of vague consequences if North Korea continues to violate U.N. resolutions.
As U.S. President Barack Obama said in his State of the Union address, the North Koreans' provocations "will only further isolate them, as we stand by our allies, strengthen our own missile defense and lead the world in taking firm action in response to these threats."
Unfortunately, none of these actions will curb Pyongyang's nuclear ambitions.