Pentagon Shifts Deterrence Role to South Korea in New Defense Strategy
The Pentagon's new defense strategy shifts primary deterrence responsibilities regarding North Korea to South Korea, reflecting the latter's robust military capabilities and increased defense spending. This approach allows the U.S. to adopt a more limited role while emphasizing the importance of allies contributing to their own security, amidst ongoing concerns about threats from Russia and Iran. The strategy also highlights South Korea's willingness to face the North Korean threat directly, supported by a 7.5% increase in its military budget.
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The Pentagon's national defense strategy document, titled "Restoring peace through strength for a new golden age of America," outlines a shift in deterrence responsibilities towards South Korea regarding North Korea threats. The U.S. will adopt a "more limited" role, with South Korea capable of primary deterrence due to its strong military, significant defense spending, and mandatory conscription.
This change aligns with U.S. interests in updating its force posture on the Korean Peninsula. The document emphasizes that South Korea faces a clear threat from North Korea and is willing to take on this responsibility.
Additionally, the strategy aims to reduce interventionism and prioritize homeland defense while insisting that allies contribute to their own security interests. The policy also notes ongoing concerns regarding Russia and Iran's threats, with South Korea increasing its military budget by 7.5% this year and approximately 28,500 U.S. troops currently stationed in the region.
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