North Korea Fires Ballistic Missile
On Monday, North Korea fired a ballistic missile as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited South Korea for the third Summit for Democracy.
Joint Military Training Exercises
Washington and Seoul recently concluded one of their major annual joint military training exercises, aimed at strengthening deterrence against North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats.
Recent Developments
- Pyongyang warned of consequences over the joint military drills
- North Korea conducted its second ballistic missile test of the year
- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guided an artillery unit capable of striking Seoul
US-South Korea Alliance
Seoul is a key regional ally of the United States, with American soldiers stationed in South Korea to help protect against North Korea.
Upcoming Discussions
Secretary Blinken is set to meet with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae Yul to discuss ways to enhance the alliance and improve “extended deterrence” against North Korea.
Democracy Summit and Regional Relations
The Summit for Democracy has drawn criticism for its selective invitation list. After South Korea, Blinken will visit the Philippines to reaffirm the commitment to regional allies and counterbalance China.
