South Korea, US in close consultation over joint exercise
(VOVWORLD) - The scope and timing of any joint military exercise between South Korea and the United States will be made in close consultation between the allies, a US Defense Department spokesman said Wednesday, stressing that any decisions on joint drills have been and will continue to be mutual.
 Korean and American troops participate in a live-fire drill in Pocheon, 65 kilometers northeast of Seoul. (Photo: AFP/VNA) |
Spokesman John Kirby also noted each exercise may look different because of changes in the security environment.
The allies are expected to stage their regular summertime joint event in August, but many believe Seoul may wish to scale it down amid its efforts to bring North Korea back to talks. Kirby added that the US is going to continue to remain committed to readiness and appropriate capabilities on the peninsula.