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White House analysis casts doubt on North Korea's nuclear test claims

North Korea says it has successfully conducted a test of a miniaturised hydrogen nuclear device on Wednesday morning.

However, the White House has said initial analysis of the reported nuclear test is not consistent with claims of a successful hydrogen bomb.

In a statement the country said it would continue to strengthen its nuclear programme as long as the US maintained what it called "its stance of aggression."

Much of the international community has condemned North Korea after the claim, including China, the country's major ally, and Britain, which said the move was a "provocation".

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North Korea could face new sanctions over nuclear test

Senator Ben Cardin said the US and other nations 'must respond resolutely'. Credit: PA

North Korea could face new sanctions over a reported hydrogen nuclear device test, a top US Democrat has warned.

Senator Ben Cardin, who sits on the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said he will pursue legislation to impose fresh sanctions on the state.

Mr Cardin said the United States and other nations "must respond resolutely" to the test.

"In particular, I intend to work with my colleagues in the Senate on legislation to impose additional sanctions on North Korea and would also urge additional sanctions by the United Nations Security Council," he said in a statement.

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