Seoul: Gen. Xavier Brunson, commander of the ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command and U.S. Forces Korea (USFK), has proposed a potential reduction in the number of U.S. troops stationed on the Korean Peninsula. During his first press briefing since assuming office on August 8, Brunson emphasized the importance of military capability over troop numbers, suggesting that the current 28,500 troops could be reduced in favor of deploying advanced weaponry, such as F-35 fighter jets, under the concept of "strategic flexibility."

According to Yonhap News Agency, this proposal aligns with the broader strategy of the U.S. Department of Defense to utilize USFK not only as a deterrent against North Korea but also to address the growing influence of China. Brunson highlighted concerns over China's attempts to assert control over the Yellow Sea, warning that such actions could threaten Korean sovereignty and underscoring that USFK's role in countering China also benefits Korea.

The possibility of troop reduction has been a recurring topic under the Trump administration's "alliance modernization" agenda. Brunson's mention of a potential drawdown is significant, especially with the upcoming National Defense Strategy possibly incorporating such measures. Despite the U.S. Congress's stance, as reaffirmed through the National Defense Authorization Act, to maintain current USFK levels, the Trump administration appears open to reassigning troops if necessary. Brunson's caution against hastily transferring wartime operational control reflects an understanding of the need for a deliberate approach.

Brunson's remarks come shortly before an anticipated Korea-U.S. summit, prompting speculation that they may be part of a strategy to pressure Seoul into increasing its defense cost-sharing. The strategic shift toward containing China is not new, but it poses a challenge for Korea in planning its security strategy amid potential reductions in USFK numbers.

Seoul must brace for possible unilateral actions or pressure from Trump during the summit. Historical precedents, such as the Nixon administration's withdrawal of the U.S. 7th Infantry Division in the early 1970s without Seoul's consent, underscore the need for vigilance. President Lee Jae Myung is advised to advocate for maintaining deterrence through rotational deployments of advanced weapons while ensuring any troop reductions occur gradually. Concurrently, the Korean military should bolster its capabilities within the alliance framework, reallocating defense resources to enhance intelligence, procure advanced weaponry, and prepare for the eventual transfer of wartime operational control.