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.

I concur completely in your opening remarks about the importance of the region, the importance of our alliance with South Korea, and the danger and the threat that North Korea poses to security in that region and, indeed, security in the…

North Korea is about as unpredictable and dangerous actor as we have to deal with in the world today.

South Korea is an absolutely critical ally and partner in many ways.

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.

Being in a better position in Afghanistan is still finding yourself in a very difficult spot.

I look forward to your testimony and insights into the challenges and way forward in Afghanistan.

If there is one demonstrable historical truth, it is that foreign forces in Afghanistan are destabilizing over time.

It is my belief that it is time to lean forward on transitioning the responsibility for security to the Afghan National Security Forces and the Afghan government.

We have to transition to Afghan sovereignty as quickly as we responsibly can.