Political Crisis in South Korea: U.S. Troops on Alert

Despite South Korea's political turmoil, with President Yoon Suk Yeol's suspension and Han Duck-soo's impeachment, U.S. military readiness remains intact, according to a U.S. official. The crisis has not yet affected the 28,500 U.S. troops stationed there. Both nations continue to monitor the situation closely.

South Korea's political crisis, marked by President Yoon Suk Yeol's suspension and acting President Han Duck-soo's impeachment, hasn't affected the military readiness of 28,500 U.S. troops stationed in the region. A U.S. official confirmed this while emphasizing Washington's vigilant monitoring of the situation.

The origins of the U.S. military presence trace back to the Korean War (1950-1953) as a continuing measure of stability. Recent events, including the martial law declaration, prompted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to cancel a trip to South Korea and postponed planned military exercises.

The martial law and subsequent political chaos have ignited concerns among global allies, particularly those who viewed Yoon as a key player against China's, Russia's, and North Korea's influence. Meanwhile, the U.S. reports heavy North Korean military losses in the Kursk region conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)