‘Storm clouds gathering’ over Korean Peninsula; US military must be ready for war, says Jim Mattis

"My fine young soldiers, the only way our diplomats can speak with authority and be believed is if you're ready to go," Mattis told several dozen soldiers and airmen at the 82nd Airborne Division's Hall of Heroes.

By: AP | Published: December 23, 2017 9:34 am

US military must be ready for war, says Jim Mattis

The US has nearly 28,000 troops permanently stationed in South Korea, but if war came, many thousands more would be needed for a wide range of missions, including ground combat. (Photo: AP)

“Storm clouds are gathering” over the Korean Peninsula, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis declared today. And as diplomats try to resolve the nuclear standoff, he told soldiers that the US military must do its part by being ready for war. Without forecasting a conflict, Mattis emphasized that diplomacy stands the best chance of preventing a war if America’s words are backed up by strong and prepared armed forces.