On May 7, 1999, a B-2 Spirit bomber launched a JDAM satellite guided bomb on the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, causing 27 casualties. The carefully planned mission, orchestrated by the CIA, was the only air strike of the Kosovo War carried out outside of NATO. The attack on the embassy had significant consequences for North Korea-U.S. relations, demonstrating American offensive capabilities.
The aftermath of the attack saw North Korea facing pressure to accept new restrictions in exchange for the U.S. fulfilling terms of the Agreed Framework. Negotiations in 1999-2000 favored Washington, leading to concessions from Pyongyang. The Clinton administration had considered striking North Korean nuclear facilities in 1994, and the attack on the Chinese embassy further weakened North Korea’s negotiating position.
The use of the B-2 bomber in the attack highlighted America’s military prowess and willingness to cross boundaries to achieve its objectives. This left Pyongyang vulnerable and impacted its position in subsequent negotiations.
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