North Korea held a large military parade in its capital today in advance of sending its athletes to South Korea for the Winter Olympics beginning there tomorrow. The parade, scheduled weeks ago, is seen as an attempt to taunt the Trump administration while also displaying its restraint with regards to relations with the South.
Vice President Mike Pence arrived in South Korea on Thursday where he will attend the opening ceremonies. Pence is leading the American delegation there. He has reportedly asked Olympic organizers to “ensure he would never have to cross paths with the North Korean delegation.” But when asked about a possible meeting with the North Korean delegation, the Vice President said, “With regard to any interaction with the North Korean delegation, I have not requested a meeting, but we’ll see what happens.”
President Trump has asked the Department of Defense to begin planning a military parade in the nation’s capital as well. The pentagon confirmed yesterday that planning for the event has begun. “We are aware of the request and are in the process of determining specific details. We will share more information throughout the planning process,” a Defense Department statement issued yesterday read.
Possible dates for the U.S. parade include November 11, Veteran’s Day.