The Chinese government has strongly criticized U.S. Forces Korea Commander Javier Brunson for describing South Korea and the U.S. military presence there as a "forward base" for countering China.
On May 28, the Chinese Embassy in South Korea issued a statement in response to Brunson's recent public remarks, stating, "Your comments have clearly crossed the line." Brunson had previously likened South Korea to a "dagger" and a "fixed aircraft carrier" in the context of its geographical significance and the role of U.S. forces in deterring China.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy questioned, "Is referring to U.S. forces as an aircraft carrier or dagger an act of aggression, or is there an intention to take other countries hostage?"
The spokesperson also referenced a recent agreement between U.S. and Chinese leaders to establish a "constructive and strategically stable relationship," asking Brunson whether his hostile remarks toward China were sanctioned by Washington or aimed at undermining the outcomes of the U.S.-China summit.
Additionally, some South Korean media outlets have criticized Brunson's comments, urging him to respect regional countries and work harder to promote peace and stability in the area.
This statement from the Chinese Embassy is seen as an effort to counter U.S. moves to expand the role of U.S. forces in South Korea beyond North Korean deterrence to include responses to regional conflicts such as those in the Taiwan Strait.
China has recently reiterated the need for stability in U.S.-China relations. According to state-run Xinhua News Agency, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China and Foreign Minister, met with U.S. strategic and economic figures in New York on May 27, stating, "China-U.S. relations extend beyond bilateral ties and affect global peace and the future of humanity."
Wang emphasized the need for both countries to quickly realize a "constructive strategic stability relationship." Regarding the Taiwan issue, he stated, "Taiwan independence and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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