WASHINGTON, Aug. 26 (UPI) -- I watched closely the summit between President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea and President Donald J. Trump here in Washington. On the surface, the summit went smoothly, measured words, positive atmospherics, handshakes and announcements of economic cooperation that both sides can sell to their domestic audiences.
Yet, as someone who spent a career focused on Korea, I cannot help but see that we avoided a crisis -- but failed to seize a historic opportunity.
On security, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the ROK-U.S. alliance and the continued stationing of U.S. forces in Korea. That foundation remained intact, despite Trump floating the idea of "U.S. ownership" of bases, a statement that raised eyebrows.
Experts correctly assessed that as a bargaining ploy more than a doctrinal shift, but it underscores the transactional way Trump still views overseas security responsibilities. Lee maintained composure and emphasized stability, ensuring that no immediate damage was done to the alliance fabric.
Regarding North Korea, the words were familiar: dialogue, deterrence and peacemaking. Trump, unsurprisingly, expressed his continued interest in another high-profile meeting with Kim Jong Un at the upcoming APEC summit. Lee encouraged this, clearly hoping for momentum in engagement.
