"South Korea is an absolutely critical ally and partner in many ways."
"North Korea is about as unpredictable and dangerous actor as we have to deal with in the world today."
"I look forward to your testimony, particularly in talking about the proposed missile launch that North Korea is talking about doing in mid-April."
"This puts our 28,000 troops and the 24 million citizens of Seoul, the world's fourth largest city, easily within the erratic regime's lethal reach."
"This is typical behavior shown by the regime--a cycle of provocations and reconciliations designed to get what they want without giving up their nuclear weapons program."
"The readiness and posture of U.S. troops on the peninsula are key to stopping a dangerous regime from destabilizing the region with unwarranted attacks."
"The President has been clear that he is prepared to engage constructively with North Korea."
"North Korea's decision to launch a ballistic missile violates the moratorium agreement announced on February 29, 2012."
"I remain very concerned about the President's decision last summer to speed up withdrawal of the surge troops from Afghanistan."
"These decisions by the President have made it increasingly difficult to build up trust and confidence with the Afghan institutions."
"I have total confidence in you and your command. The challenge in Afghanistan continues to be great."
"I think this hearing today is extremely timely, with the American people needing to hear from you on what is really going on over there on the ground."