Bipartisan US Senate bill reaffirms 'ironclad' nuclear deterrence pledge to S. Korea

Washington, DC - Senators Mark Kelly and Thom Tillis have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at reaffirming the United States' unwavering commitment to extended nuclear deterrence for South Korea and other treaty allies, in response to escalating nuclear threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. The Reaffirming Extended Nuclear Deterrence Act, co-sponsored by Kelly (D-AZ) and Tillis (R-NC), emphasizes the importance of maintaining a credible U.S. nuclear deterrent, bolstered by conventional military forces, joint military exercises, and strategic dialogues with allies.

The legislation underscores the US government's pledge to uphold its extended deterrence commitments to treaty allies as "ironclad," ensuring that its military posture, joint military exercises, strategic dialogues, and defense investments reflect this steadfast dedication. The bill specifically singles out South Korea, Japan, Australia, and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members as nations whose security is crucial to the US national security agenda, while acknowledging the mounting nuclear threats emanating from North Korea, China, and Russia.