WASHINGTON (AP) - A U.S. government official says North Korea may be preparing for its third nuclear test as the United Nations considers new sanctions on the dictatorship for conducting an underground nuclear explosion in May.
Word of a possible new test comes from an official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to discuss the information publicly.
North Korea conducted an underground explosion on May 25, its first since a 2006 atomic test.
A draft U.N. resolution proposed Wednesday would impose tough sanctions on North Korea's weapons exports and financial dealings and allow inspections of suspect cargo in ports and on the high seas. North Korea has threatened to retaliate if new sanctions are adopted.
The news comes on the same day that President Barack Obama's special envoy said the U.S. is determined to make sure the North faces serious consequences for its growing missile and nuclear threat.