[LZ_Bayonet]

"Rice has reassured Seoul that the U.S. will defend the country if the North attacks. She brought a similar message to Japan, her first stop on a four-day trip devoted mostly to talks on the nuclear crisis."

Maybe a case of Rice saying to Japan and South Korea, to relief of China, "No need for your own nukes". China talks to NK. QUID PRO QUO?

Rice and Chinese envoy Tang Jiaxuan meet in Beijing for a beer, hoist bottles to celebrate deal?

[sam_paine]

Maybe a case of Rice saying to Japan and South Korea, to relief of China, "No need for your own nukes".

You may see that as a capitulation to China. I see it as retaining our critical influence in Asia.

If SoKo and Japan can defend themselves, then they no longer have that critical consideration or motivation to align themselves with us.

[Nuc1]

Perhaps. But given our countries recent track record in sticking it out in a fight I wouldn't count on any defense from the United States. Especially given the RATS 5 th column activities. If I was Japan, Taiwan, or South Korea I would be getting my nucs ready to go. United Stated defending them, don't count on it.