AFP News has cited a White House official as saying the U.S. is assessing military options in response to North Korea's weapons programs.
 
The report said the White House foreign policy adviser said that another provocative test by the North was a question of "when" rather than "if."
 
The adviser said on condition of anonymity that "military options are already being assessed" amid speculation that Pyongyang is preparing to fire a trial nuke or missile on a major anniversary on Saturday. The official noted the North has traditionally had a big parade rolling out weapons on the anniversary of the birth of the country's founder Kim Il-Sung. 

The report also said that on Saturday Trump will dispatch Vice President Mike Pence to the Asian region to firm up resolve among allies. 
 
Another White House official was quoted as saying that Pence will be looking to assure allies on Washington's "ironclad" commitment and he will discuss the North's missile and nuclear issue with Seoul. 
 
Pence will visit South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and Australia with North Korean issues high on the agenda. 

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