South Korea: Talks with US on management of nukes underway

By HYUNG-JIN KIM
Associated Press

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea maintains Seoul and Washington are discussing its involvement in U.S. nuclear weapons management in the face of intensifying North Korean threats, after President Joe Biden denied the allies were discussing joint nuclear exercises. The purported difference came as South Korea is seeking a greater U.S. security commitment after North Korea’s record missile tests and escalating nuclear doctrine caused security jitters. Some experts say South Korea’s statement is likely largely based on an agreement between their defense chiefs in November to conduct table-top exercises annually. They also reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to providing extended deterrence, a reference to a U.S. promise to use full U.S. capabilities, including nuclear, to protect its allies.