U.N. Security Council imposes new sanctions on North Korea

But diplomats acknowledged that it remained to be seen how vigorously key trading partners, including China, would enforce the sanctions.

Both Russia and China, North Korea's traditional protectors, joined in the vote.

China's envoy to the U.N., Zhang Yesui, said the resolution showed the "firm opposition" of the international community to North Korea's recent defiant actions. At the same time, China has opposed a requirement for U.N. members to search North Korean vessels, and the envoy urged nations to use caution in interdictions.

"We strongly urge [North Korea] to honor its commitment to denuclearization, stop any moves that may further worsen the situation and return to the six-party talks" on disarmament, Zhang said.

North Korea has railed against the threat of interdiction, declaring that such actions would be an act of war.

U.S. envoy Rosemary DiCarlo said the new sanctions were "markedly stronger" than those of the past, which had not persuaded North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons.

The U.N.'s action came amid speculation that North Korea might be preparing for another nuclear test, which would be its third.

paul.richter@latimes.com