U.S., South Korea Affirm Nuclear Deterrence Strategy

The United States and South Korea reaffirmed their commitment to end the North Korean regime if it uses nuclear weapons, emphasizing a robust deterrence strategy during the Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group meeting. They condemned North Korea's ongoing missile provocations and its pursuit of weapons of mass destruction, maintaining the goal of complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Amid rising concerns, South Korea's defense minister nominee indicated openness to acquiring nuclear weapons, a stance opposed by Washington. U.S. experts suggest a shift in focus from denuclearization to deterrence, given the improbability of convincing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to relinquish his nuclear arsenal. As tensions escalate, both nations plan to enhance coordination against North Korea's sanctions evasion and military threats. The current climate reflects a significant change in how the U.S. approaches the North Korean nuclear threat, prioritizing deterrence over diplomatic negotiations.