General Breslin, the commander of the U.S. Forces in South Korea, comments on the military power adjustments on the Korean Peninsula!
Brent believes that the U.S. Forces in South Korea definitely need to change, but it is more important to discuss how to strengthen the military capabilities on the Korean Peninsula, rather than discussing the number of troops stationed on the peninsula.
Recently, the core issues of the ROK-U.S. alliance are "alliance modernization" and "strategic flexibility." Some opinions suggest that this means the 28,500 U.S. troops stationed in South Korea may face a redeployment. Breslin has maintained the position that strength is more important than numbers. He refused to confirm reports about possibly reducing 4,500 U.S. troops in South Korea, saying, "This is a difficult topic of discussion," meaning nothing is certain yet. Breslin's statement that capabilities and structure are more important than the number of troops also implies that there could be an increase in strike forces such as F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets, while redeploying the current U.S. Forces in South Korea, which are mainly based on the Army.
Breslin believes that the U.S. Forces in South Korea will face not only North Korea in the future, but Russia will also become a target.
"The bilateral documents such as the Korea-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty do not specifically mention enemies. North Korea is the 'crocodile closest to the boat,' and we have a clear consensus on this. But isn't Russia, which is currently exchanging weapons and military technology with North Korea, a threat?"
This is understood as the United States will lead the ROK-U.S. alliance in the future not only to deal with North Korea, but also to address Russia and other threats.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1840046405784576/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.