S. Korea, U.S. defense chiefs show difference on timing of OPCON transition
- 4 years ago
한미 국방, 전작권전환 시각차...서욱 "조건 조기 구비" vs 에스퍼 "시간걸려"
During defense talks between Seoul and Washington on Wednesday,... U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper said it will take time for South Korea to meet the conditions for transferring wartime operational control from Washington to Seoul.
His remarks show a gap between the two allies on the issue,... as South Korea's Defense Minister Suh Wook called for a prompt transfer of operational control.
Esper also said the U.S. would welcome increased defense spending by South Korea.
Unlike in last year's joint releases, there was no mention of the U.S. commitment to maintaining its troop levels in South Korea.
Also, a joint press conference scheduled after the meeting was canceled upon request by Washington.
During defense talks between Seoul and Washington on Wednesday,... U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper said it will take time for South Korea to meet the conditions for transferring wartime operational control from Washington to Seoul.
His remarks show a gap between the two allies on the issue,... as South Korea's Defense Minister Suh Wook called for a prompt transfer of operational control.
Esper also said the U.S. would welcome increased defense spending by South Korea.
Unlike in last year's joint releases, there was no mention of the U.S. commitment to maintaining its troop levels in South Korea.
Also, a joint press conference scheduled after the meeting was canceled upon request by Washington.