Cut Campbell: "US Tactical Nuclear Expansion Deterrence Will Is Firm"

"Substantive Measures Consulted with Allies"
"Current Approach to North Korea Effective, Will Coordinate with Allies on North Korea Policy"

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo In-ho] Kurt Campbell, U.S. White House National Security Council (NSC) Indo-Pacific Coordinator, stated on the 6th (local time) regarding the redeployment of tactical nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula, "The United States' extended deterrence remains strong, and confirming this to our allies, partners, and those who seek to test it is America's most important interest."

Coordinator Campbell made these remarks during the 'Trans-Pacific Dialogue' forum held by the Choi Jong-hyun Academic Institute in Middleburg, Virginia, when asked by reporters whether the U.S. is considering nuclear sharing with South Korea or the redeployment of tactical nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula.

However, he did not specifically comment on matters related to nuclear sharing or the review of tactical nuclear redeployment between the South Korean and U.S. governments.

Coordinator Campbell explained, "Despite the various challenges we face, the United States' determination to maintain the nuclear umbrella over Japan and South Korea is firm, and we are engaging in in-depth consultations with our allies and partners about what is necessary to make extended deterrence measures practical and certain."

When asked whether a different approach toward North Korea is needed amid unprecedented provocations, he said, "We are always reviewing our assumptions," adding, "We believe the current direction is effective and thoughtful, and we are consulting very closely with Japan and South Korea."

He continued, "It cannot be denied that the North Korean issue is one of the most difficult challenges on the global stage," and added, "The best approach is to be in full alignment with our allies and partners, and we will continue to do so."

Regarding the timing of North Korea's seventh nuclear test, he said, "I do not know," but added, "We have sent a very strong message to North Korea, China, Russia, and others that North Korea's seventh nuclear test during this sensitive period and international relations will destabilize Northeast Asia and the world and have very negative effects."

He also stated that the trilateral alliance of South Korea, the U.S., and Japan "is maintaining the strongest possible alert posture and coordinating how to respond (to the nuclear test)," adding, "We are making all possible preparations at this point, and frankly, we do not know much about Kim Jong-un and his team's decision-making."

Regarding the possibility of resolving disagreements related to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which has sparked controversy over discrimination against foreign-made electric vehicles including those from South Korea, he said, "I will only say that we are closely consulting with our allies and partners on all economic issues," reiterating the existing principle.