Stars and Stripes:
SEOUL, South Korea — The United States stepped up criticism of South Korea’s withdrawal from a military intelligence-sharing agreement with Japan, warning it will complicate defense and “increase risk to U.S. forces.”
The unusually blunt statement on Monday came amid concerns that Seoul’s decision to exit the General Security of Military Information Agreement, or GSOMIA, is the latest blow to U.S. influence in the region.
Underscoring the high stakes, North Korea has conducted seven missile and rocket tests since July 25, most recently on Saturday, expanding its arsenal amid stalled nuclear talks with Washington.
Chinese and Russian fighter jets also recently flew in a show of force though air space disputed between South Korea and Japan.