US and South Korea Discuss Best Response to North Korean Nuclear Threat
Washington, D.C. – The United States and South Korea held their fifth ExtendedDeterrence Strategy Consultation Group (EDSCG) meeting on September 4th, focusing on the escalating nuclear threat posed by North Korea. Both governments expressed theirconcern that Pyongyang could conduct its seventh nuclear test or launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) around the time of the US presidential election in November, potentiallyescalating tensions in the region.
During the meeting, South Korean First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun, who attended the meeting at the US State Department, highlighted North Korea’s continued development of nuclear weapons and missiles, as wellas recent incidents of GPS interference and the launching of garbage balloons. He emphasized that the possibility of North Korea launching a major provocation before the US election cannot be ruled out, and the two countries discussed various potential scenarios and corresponding countermeasures.
Kim stressed that strengthening extended deterrence against North Korea is the most effective way to address the nuclear threat. He confirmed that both countries will continue to work together through the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) and the EDSCG to develop enhanced extended deterrence plans. Addressing concerns about the potential for South Korea to pursue its ownnuclear weapons, Kim stated that the government does not support options like redeploying tactical nuclear weapons.
When asked about the US and South Korean response to a potential North Korean nuclear attack, Kim asserted that a swift, overwhelming, and decisive retaliation would be launched, leaving no room for the North Korean regime tosurvive. This position was echoed by US Deputy Secretary of State Bonnie Jenkins, who serves as the US lead for the EDSCG. She reiterated the US commitment to providing extended deterrence to South Korea, using all available defense capabilities, and vowed that the US would not tolerate North Korea’s use of nuclear weapons against itsallies.
The US also emphasized its commitment to achieving complete denuclearization of the Korean peninsula and its willingness to engage in dialogue with North Korea without preconditions. This was stated by Acting Deputy Secretary of Defense Kara Abercrombie.
The meeting involved detailed discussions on specific and effective responses to a simulated North Korean nuclear attackscenario. The two sides also addressed potential provocations in non-nuclear domains, including artificial intelligence (AI), space, cyber, and biological weapons.
The EDSCG meeting underscores the growing concern over North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and the importance of a strong US-South Korea alliance in deterring further provocations. The meeting also highlights the complex challenges facing the international community in addressing the North Korean nuclear issue.
Key Takeaways:
- Both the US and South Korea believe North Korea may conduct a nuclear test or ICBM launch around the US election in November.
- The two countries are working together to strengthen extendeddeterrence against North Korea.
- South Korea has ruled out pursuing its own nuclear weapons.
- The US has committed to using all available defense capabilities to retaliate against a North Korean nuclear attack.
- Both countries are committed to achieving complete denuclearization of the Korean peninsula and are open to dialogue with North Korea.
Note: This news article is based on the provided information and existing knowledge about the North Korean nuclear issue. It is intended to be informative and does not express any opinions or endorsements.
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