Secretary Rubio held a conversation with Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul. The discussion focused on the Alliance's mission to defend South Korea through a strong combined defense posture and enhancing mutual security, as outlined in the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty.
Spokesperson Tammy Bruce noted that Secretary Rubio emphasized the United States' commitment to providing extended deterrence to South Korea by utilizing the full range of U.S. military capabilities. Both leaders agreed on advancing the modernization of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, aligning it with common economic and national security objectives. This effort will be consistent with trade consultations led by Secretary Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Greer.
Additionally, they pledged to collaborate in addressing shared regional threats.