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The US vowed to defend South Korea in the event of North Korean aggression. Photos/Illustrations
WASHINGTON – United States of America (US) remains committed to defending South Korea (carousel) if there is “aggression” from North Korea (North Korea) because Seoul is under an extended umbrella of deterrence. It was confirmed Pentagon .
Responding to recent statements by South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol that his country could use tactical nuclear weapons or have its own nuclear capabilities, Pentagon Press Secretary Pat Ryder said US policy remains focused on the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
“A lot of this has to do with facts from a regional security and stability and non-proliferation standpoint in terms of preventing potential opportunities for the use of nuclear weapons. So, from a United States perspective, again, our policy on denuclearization remains very clear,” Ryder said.
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“But it is also important to remember that the Republic of Korea is under that umbrella of extended deterrence,” he added, using South Korea’s official name.
The Pentagon spokesman said nearly 30,000 US troops were stationed in South Korea alone and they were focused on supporting and defending their allies.
“So our commitment to this goal remains strong,” he added.
On Thursday, South Korea’s president said he was looking at various possibilities following growing calls to reintroduce US tactical nuclear weapons to the country or acquire nuclear weapons of his own.
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“There are varying opinions across our country and in the United States regarding extended deterrence, so I am listening to them carefully and looking carefully at the various possibilities,” Yonhap News Agency reported quoting Yoon as answering questions about a possible redeployment of armed forces. tactical nuke.
In 1990, the US withdrew tactical nuclear weapons from South Korea following a disarmament agreement with the Soviet Union.
Tensions in the region started in 2020 when North Korea attacked and blew up inter-Korean liaison offices along the border. Seoul has threatened a tough response if Pyongyang “further escalates the situation”.
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(ian)
