The escalating war of words between the US and North Korea, and Donald Trump's warning of "fire and fury" if Kim Jong-un overtly threatens China. Syrian refugees are afraid of the nuclear tests effects and its significant threat to Earth's climate.

Huge quantities of money have been invested in ballistic missile defence. There is a global network of satellite sensors and relays able to spot and track a missile launch.

It is ironic and telling about a time of acute strategic risk and uncertainty, when the rhetoric, assessments and actions of national leaders are likely to carry profound significance for regional and global security.

The importance of diplomacy and signs that the North Koreans are open to dialogue.

Any US president has to accept that the North poses an "unreal and distant" danger to northeast Asia and America's key allies. Globalization brought about serious feelings of insecurity.