On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Defense stated, “We do not want anyone to exploit the impeachment crisis in South Korea.”
This statement comes amid the turmoil in South Korea, where President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law has sparked investigations into insurrection allegations and an impeachment crisis. The U.S. Department of Defense emphasized its commitment to maintaining dialogue and cooperation with South Korea to prevent North Korea from miscalculating and initiating a conflict.
During a press briefing, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh addressed concerns about potential North Korean provocations in light of South Korea’s political instability.
Singh characterized the current impeachment situation in South Korea as a “democratic political process,” underscoring U.S. support for this process.
“A democratic political process is currently underway in South Korea,” she stated, “and we must allow this process to continue.”
When asked if discussions between the U.S. and South Korea are proceeding normally despite the impeachment crisis, Singh confirmed, “Yes.”
While Austin postponed his visit to South Korea due to the impeachment crisis, Singh reaffirmed that dialogue and cooperation continue at a fundamental level.
She emphasized that “cooperation and dialogue continue” between the U.S. and South Korea, adding, “We are building a strong relationship with South Korea and will continue to do so.”
Austin had previously planned to visit South Korea after his trip to Japan, but he canceled the plans due to the martial law declaration and the subsequent impeachment crisis.
