State Department: Timing of Google exec's trip to North Korea not 'helpful'

The State Department took issue with the timing of Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt's forthcoming trip to North Korea with former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, saying it's not "particularly helpful."

Schmidt and Richardson are heading on a private trip to North Korea that could take place as soon as this month, The Associated Press reported, citing two people familiar with the group's plans. "Frankly, we don't think the timing of this is particularly helpful, but they are private citizens, and they are making their own decisions," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told reporters at a press briefing when asked about the AP report. She pointed to North Korea's launch of a long-range rocket last month. Nuland said the former governor and Google executive are traveling in an "unofficial capacity" and will not be accompanied by any U.S. officials. She added that the two are "well aware" of the department's views on their trip and declined to comment further on whether they contacted the department about their travel plans.