SUMMARY
The United States and its allies should be wary of initiating peace talks with North Korea without a thorough understanding of the complexity of such negotiations, as well as the wide-ranging strategic ramifications of such an agreement. An end-of-war declaration would only provide an amorphous hope that it would improve relations and lead Pyongyang to undertake undefined actions. While the armistice has provided the framework for peace, it is the presence of strong South Korean and U.S. military forces that guarantees the peace.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
South Korean President Moon is increasingly pushing for an end-of-war (EOW) declaration with North Korea despite Pyongyang’s continuing provocations and threats.
A premature EOW declaration would be a feel-good gesture with no tangible benefits, and would do nothing to improve the security situation on the Korean Peninsula.
The U.S. recognizes that a declaration cannot be made as an inducement, and must be part of a comprehensive denuclearization agreement, and should stay the course.
