US nuclear deterrence talks with South Korea postponed after martial law turmoil

‘Given the events in the ROK, it was deemed a prudent measure,' says Pentagon

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US confirmed Thursday that a planned meeting of the Nuclear Consultative Group with South Korea has been delayed after President Yoon Suk Yeol's aborted effort to impose martial law on the country.

Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder said he did not have any updated timeframe on when the session would be rescheduled.

"Given the events in the ROK, it was deemed a prudent measure, and we'll keep you updated in terms of a new date when that's rescheduled," he told reporters at the Pentagon, referring to South Korea by its formal acronym.

South Korean President Yoon imposed martial law late Tuesday, citing alleged “anti-state activities” by opposition groups.

The Defense Ministry ordered military commanders to prepare and dispatched troops to enforce the decree, including entry into the National Assembly.

But lawmakers managed to enter the parliament at midnight, and during an emergency session voted 190-0 to repeal the decree for army rule, rendering it void.

Yoon complied with the parliament's decision, convened his Cabinet and reversed course on the declaration. He now faces impeachment.

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