U.S. commander in South Korea says he supports plan to reduce DMZ outposts

Thomson Reuters

By Josh Smith

SEOUL (Reuters) - The top commander of U.S. troops in South Korea said on Wednesday he supports moves to withdraw some outposts along the fortified border with North Korea, despite the risks.

South Korea’s defense ministry has said it plans to reduce guard posts and equipment along the demilitarized zone on its border with North Korea as part of efforts to reduce tension and build trust with its northern neighbor.

"I have some concerns about what that means militarily for the ability to defend along the Military Demarcation Line," U.S. General Vincent Brooks told reporters on Wednesday.

But he said that the risk is "a reasonable degree" and the move represents a good opportunity to reduce tensions.

Brooks also said that his troops are finding "other ways" to maintain readiness in the absence of major military drills, which were canceled or delayed by U.S. President Donald Trump as part of a deal with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un.

(Reporting by Josh Smith; Editing by Michael Perry)

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