WASHINGTON: The United States and South Korea have clinched a ‘momentous nuclear weapons deal’ to counter the North Korean ‘nuclear threat’.
Washington has decided to intermittently deploy US nuclear-armed submarines to South Korea and involve Seoul in its nuclear planning over any conflict with North Korea.
In return, South Korea has concurred not to pursue its own nuclear weapons programme.
The agreement came after a meeting between US President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is currently in Washington to discuss various issues with the key ally.
Both presidents made the announcement at a press conference held at the White House.
US President Joe Biden said the “Washington Declaration” would reinforce the allies’ cooperation in deterring a North Korean attack.
Both the US and South Korea have been raising concerns about the nuclear threat from North Korea, which has consistently been developing tactical nuclear weapons that could target neighbouring South Korea and can also hit the US mainland.
The US already has an accord obligation to defend South Korea, and has earlier pledged to use nuclear weapons if necessary. But some in South Korea have doubted that pledge and call for the country to pursue its own nuclear weapons programme.
Yoon Suk Yeol said the Washington Declaration marked an “unparalleled” commitment by the US to enhance defence, deter attacks and protect its allies by using nuclear weapons.
“US and South Korea have agreed to instant bilateral presidential consultations in case of North Korea’s nuclear attack and pledged to respond swiftly, overwhelmingly and decisively using the full force of the alliance, including the US’ nuclear weapons,” Yoon said.
But Joe Biden clarified that no US nuclear weapons would be stationed in South Korea.
“I have absolute authority as commander in chief and the only authority to use a nuclear weapon, but … what the Washington Declaration means is that we are going to make every effort to consult with our partners when it’s appropriate if any action is so called for,” he said.
A senior US administration official said that the new agreement resulted from intense negotiations that took place over several months.
