The transfer of Patriot batteries from the Korean peninsula, accompanied by reports that parts of a THAAD anti-missile system were also on the move, did not directly affect the US military presence in the Philippines.
But the episode has forced a question that Manila would rather not have to ask out loud: if America’s assets can leave South Korea, what exactly is anchoring them anywhere?
Analysts say the answer reveals much about the nature of US alliances in Asia and the limits of what treaty partners can actually demand.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung confirmed on Tuesday that Seoul had formally opposed the transfer – and failed to stop it.
“We have expressed opposition to the relocation of some air defence batteries by the US forces here for their own military needs,” he said.
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