Trump says US may have to destroy North Korea

US President Donald Trump

President Donald Trump warned leaders gathered at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday that the US may have to destroy North Korea if Kim Jong-Un's nuclear-armed regime threatens its neighbors.

"The US  has great strength and patience, but if it is forced to defend itself or its allies, we will have no choice, but to totally destroy North Korea. 

"Rocket Man is on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime," he said, using his new nickname for the North Korean leader. "The US is ready, willing and able, but hopefully this will not be necessary."