Biden State Department Asked: Has Administration Spoken Directly With South Korean President?

The Biden administration was not notified in advance of South Korean President Yoon's announcement regarding the country's nuclear weapons development. Despite this, the US maintains its commitment to the Republic of Korea and their strategic partnership, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful resolution to the situation. The US wants any resolution to respect the rule of law and the decision of the South Korean National Assembly.

No Advance Notice

• 00:00:49 The US State Department spokesperson stated that the US was not notified of President Yoon's announcement regarding nuclear weapons in advance. This lack of prior communication highlights a potential strain in the strategic partnership.

• 00:01:04 The spokesperson clarified that the situation is about the broader strategic partnership between the US and the Republic of Korea, not just the actions of individual leaders.

Commitment to Alliance

• 00:01:13 The US has expressed that its alliance with the Republic of Korea remains strong and 'ironclad'. They consider South Korea a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

• 00:02:00 The US seeks a peaceful resolution to the situation, emphasizing that it must be in accordance with the rule of law, including respecting any decisions made by the South Korean National Assembly.