The United States has denied that it is currently discussing joint nuclear exercises with South Korea, contrary to statements made by South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol.
In an interview with the Chosun Ilbo newspaper, President Yoon said that talks were ongoing regarding “joint planning and exercises involving US nuclear assets to counter North Korea’s nuclear threats”.
Asked by reporters at the White House on Marine One Arrival on Monday if he was currently discussing joint nuclear exercises with South Korea, Biden said, “No”.
Reporter: Mr. President, are you discussing joint nuclear exercises with South Korea right now?
Biden: No.
The remarks from President Yoon come at a time of increased tension with North Korea, which has recently test-launched several ballistic missiles and threatened to counter what it calls reckless and dangerous military buildup by the US and South Korea against its sovereignty.
In response, President Yoon has adopted a hardline approach and called for “war preparation” with “overwhelming” capabilities.
The Chosun Ilbo cited President Yoon as saying the joint planning and exercises with the US would be aimed at more effectively implementing the country’s “extended deterrence”, referring to the ability of the US military, specifically its nuclear forces, to deter attacks on US allies.
He added that the US has been “quite positive” about this idea.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently called for an “exponential increase” in the country’s nuclear arsenal, including the mass production of tactical nuclear weapons and the development of new missiles for nuclear counterstrikes.