The Institute for National Security Strategy (INSS) suggested that South Korea consider nuclear armament amid growing concerns that Washington’s extended deterrence may be insufficient to counter North Korea’s evolving nuclear threats. This recommendation comes in the wake of a treaty signed by Pyongyang and Moscow, which commits both parties to offer immediate military assistance if either is attacked. (Image courtesy of Pixabay/CCL)
SEOUL, Jun. 23 (Korea Bizwire) – South Korea needs to consider various options to tackle North Korea’s nuclear issue, including Seoul’s arming itself with its own nuclear weapons, a state-run think tank said in a report Sunday, amid heightened concerns raised by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s latest visit to Pyongyang.
The Institute for National Security Strategy (INSS) made the suggestion amid growing concerns that Washington’s extended deterrence is not enough to deal with North Korea’s evolving nuclear threats, now that Pyongyang and Moscow signed a treaty that calls for offering military assistance without delay if either comes under attack.
“Putin indirectly recognized North Korea’s possession of nuclear weapons in a way that bluntly flouts the U.N. Security Council’s sanctions against Pyongyang,” the INSS said. “North Korea is expected to strengthen its push to win recognitions from China and other countries that it is a nuclear state.”
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Putin signed a treaty on comprehensive strategic partnership to expand cooperation in military and other fields after summit talks on Wednesday. The treaty could be seen as warranting automatic military intervention in the event of aggression on either country.
This photo, released by Russia’s TASS news agency, shows Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un posing at the Kumsusan State Guest House at their summit on June 19, 2024. (Yonhap)
The INSS voiced concerns that the United States may seek a freeze in North Korea’s nuclear program or nuclear disarmament talks with Pyongyang if it resumes diplomacy with North Korea after the presidential election in November.
“Along with consistent efforts to strengthen Washington’s extended deterrence, the South Korean government should consider various options, ranging from the redeployment of tactical nuclear weapons, NATO-style nuclear sharing and South Korea’s nuclear armament to Seoul’s efforts to build potential nuclear capabilities,” it said.
Extended deterrence refers to the U.S. commitment to using the full-range of its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend an ally.
(Yonhap)
