The group states their mission is to mobilize women for peace in Korea globally.
As the tensions between the U.S. and the DPRK continue to escalate, a group of 40 women leaders from across the world has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to avert war with North Korea in a letter released today.

The women, who are part of the group Women Cross DMZ from both the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea, said in the letter, “Peace is the most powerful deterrent of all. We urge you to take steps now to help formally end the Korean War with a peace treaty.”

The group states its mission is to mobilize women for peace in Korea globally, “Since 1950, the Korean peninsula has been threatened with nuclear weapons, missile tests, and military exercises that have only served to make 75 million Korean people less secure.”

“In the United States and on both sides of the Korean De-Militarized Zone, the absence of a binding peace accord fuels fear and economic deprivation caused by diverting public resources in preparation for war, including deploying the controversial THAAD missile defense system in South Korea. This endless militarization must stop,” the letter said.

The letter comes at a time when Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis are preparing to brief the entire senate and the White House on Korea. The briefing is being held as the U.S, Japan and South Korea ready their militaries against the country.

Christine Ahn, international coordinator for Women Cross DMZ, told the New York Times, “President Trump could demonstrate his art of deal making by advancing what will and has only ever worked: diplomacy and engagement,” adding, “Talks with Pyongyang would be a real benchmark of success in his first 100 days.” The letter was also signed by the DPRK’s Socialist Women’s Union.

In 2015, a group of 30 members from Women Cross DMZ crossed the demilitarized zone separating North and South Korea, one of the most militarized and dangerous conflict areas in the world.

Telesur