Former ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns said he doesnt see North Korea backing down but believes going to war with the rogue nation would be a mistake on MSNBCs Morning Joe Thursday.

I just dont see theNorth Koreansbacking down, Burns said. There is no reason for us to be threatening a war with North Korea right now. It really is time for diplomacy.

Burns praised the15-0 votefor sanctions against North Korea, calling it a big step forward, but expressed concern over Chinas involvement in the escalation. Diplomacy between Beijing and Washington is as critical now as any other part of this crisis, he said.

Burns suggested empowering Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to threaten secondary sanctions on Chinese and other companies that do business with North Korea to force a response.

I think we have to put together a bigger coalition in Asia to try isolate the North Koreans but I dont think that war is imminent, Burns said.

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Former Ambassador To NATO Says North Korea Won't Back Down [VIDEO] - The Daily Caller