U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis has reaffirmed the strength of the South Korea-U.S. alliance,... noting that recent developments on the peninsula have further intensified that bond.
Referring to a recent phone call with Seoul's Defense Minister Song Young-moo, Mattis said the two sides are collaborating well and remain in constant contact.
That sentiment was also reflected by a visiting U.S. diplomat in charge of Korea affairs.
Mark Lambert said Tuesday that he does not plan to discuss the withdrawal of U.S. forces in South Korea with officials in Seoul.
Reflecting the strong alliance,... U.S. F-22 Raptor fighter jets have arrived in South Korea.
Military officials say the jets will be taking part in the two-week-long "Max Thunder" exercise that begins next week.