WSJ "Trump Pressures US Defense Department to Withdraw US Forces from South Korea... Worst Security Decision"

Kim Jong-un and Xi Jinping's Joyful Choice
Will Cause Anxiety Among Allies

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that U.S. President Donald Trump appears to have been pressuring the U.S. Department of Defense for the past couple of months regarding the reduction of U.S. forces stationed in South Korea.

On the 18th (local time), WSJ stated in an editorial that it had heard news that President Trump pressured for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan, Germany, and South Korea. Following further investigation, it was confirmed that the troop withdrawals are primarily focused on Afghanistan, and that South Korea and Germany are expected to remain "safe" this year.

However, it was reported that President Trump ordered a reduction of 9,500 U.S. troops in Germany, and that he may now issue an order to reduce U.S. forces in South Korea as well.

The newspaper said it is "uncertain" whether the reduction of U.S. forces in South Korea is merely a negotiating threat, but criticized it as the "worst national security idea." It noted that withdrawing U.S. troops from East Asia could be perceived worldwide as a sign of American weakness.

Moreover, it pointed out that if U.S. troops withdraw, the Department of Defense would have to bear the costs, and there could be expenses incurred for deploying troops to East Asia in case of emergencies.

Regarding the purpose of U.S. forces in South Korea, the main objective is defense against North Korea, but they have also played a role in reassuring Asian allies against the threat from China. Therefore, if an actual reduction occurs, it is expected that hardliners within China would welcome it. The newspaper stated, "President Trump's indifferent treatment of allies and threats to withdraw from long-standing allies are risk factors for his second term," adding, "Except for North Korea's young dictator Kim Jong-un, the withdrawal of U.S. forces from South Korea would be the move that pleases Xi Jinping the most."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.