The United States is bolstering its military presence on the Korean peninsula ahead of next month’s Olympic Games in South Korea. Stealth bombers, at least one extra aircraft carrier and a new amphibious assault ship are all heading to the region ahead of the event. The U.S. and South Korea has also agreed to postpone massive annual military exercises usually held this time of the year, until after the Olympics.
North Korea says the buildup is designed to put a chill on its recent talks with South Korea. “Such moves are an unpardonable military provocation chilling the atmosphere for improved inter-Korean relations,” North Korea said in comments this weekend.
North and South Korea held a second round of talks near the border on Monday, as they try to finalize preparations for North Korea sending a delegation of athletes to participate in the Olympics. The U.S. welcomes the talks. It says the military moves are part of routine training and scheduled upgrades.
Pacific Air Forces announced three B-2 “Spirit” stealth bombers with approximately 200 personnel have been deployed from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri to Guam last week. The deployment is intended to provide “deterrent options to maintain regional stability,” a statement said.