WASHINGTON -- US President Donald Trump said Saturday that "only one thing" will work to solve the North Korean nuclear impasse, apparently referring to military action.

Trump did not state what the "one thing" was, but he voiced strong objection to negotiations with the communist regime.

"Presidents and their administrations have been talking to North Korea for 25 years, agreements made and massive amounts of money paid... hasn't worked, agreements violated before the ink was dry, making fools of US negotiators," he claimed in a pair of tweets. "Sorry, but only one thing will work!"
 

Tensions have run high over North Korea's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs, with Trump threatening to "totally destroy" the nation if necessary.

Pyongyang conducted its sixth nuclear test in September and recently launched a series of ballistic missiles, including two over Japan.

It is widely expected to stage another provocation this month, possibly as early as next Tuesday, when it celebrates the founding anniversary of its ruling Workers' Party of Korea.

Many analysts and officials agree that it is only a matter of time before North Korea develops a nuclear-tipped ballistic missile capable of striking the mainland US.

Pyongyang claims the weapons programs are a deterrent against US hostility. (Yonhap)