Korean Peninsula

The West Sea’s strategic and economic significance for both Koreas increases the likelihood of future provocations. 

Involvement in a Korean contingency would mark a significant shift in NATO’s role and responsibilities.

A signature campaign in support of South Korea developing its own nuclear weapons represents a profound shift in policy, driven by doubts about U.S. extended deterrence.

The drills could trigger a belligerent response from North Korea, which portrays them as invasion rehearsals. During last year’s exercises, the North conducted ballistic missile tests.

Moscow needs to assure Seoul that it will not let its relations with South Korea deteriorate unduly.

The balloons, laden with trash and manure, were characterized by North Korean officials as a response to South Korean leafleting campaigns. 

Canada, with its diplomatic experience as an honest broker and history of track two engagement with North Korea, is well-positioned to try its hand at mediation.

Following expanded weapons tests by North Korea, this year’s Freedom Shield exercise will involve 48 field exercises, double the number conducted last year.

“Finlandization” for the North and “Austriazation” for the South provide a path toward unification – and denuclearization.

Why was the Korean War never permanently ended? Part of the answer is rooted in the role of South Korea in settling this military conflict.

Aside from longstanding historical issues, the three countries will face challenges in sustaining coordination on North Korea and China policy. 

The exercises will be the largest in years, after the allies canceled some of their regular drills and downsized others to create space for diplomacy with North Korea.