In a joint statement issued by the US-South Korean Nuclear Consultative Group, both nations reiterated their commitment to respond swiftly and decisively to any nuclear attack by Pyongyang on South Korea. The statement, published by the White House, emphasized the United States' unwavering dedication to providing extended deterrence to the Republic of Korea (ROK), utilizing the full spectrum of US capabilities, including nuclear options.
This reaffirmation echoes previous strong warnings from US President Joe Biden in April, where he stated that any nuclear attack by North Korea would lead to the end of the Pyongyang government. Five months earlier, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had also cautioned that a nuclear attack by North Korea against the US or its allies would spell the "end of the Kim regime." Despite these warnings, North Korea declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power last year, asserting its commitment to maintaining a nuclear program it considers vital for survival.
The recent successful launch of a military spy satellite by Pyongyang, claiming to provide images of major US and South Korean military sites, adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing tensions in the region.
