But Trump insists that South Korea, as a “very wealthy nation,” needs to pay more. His demand for up to $5 billion would imply South Korea was effectively not only being asked to cover local costs but also the entire wage bill for the U.S. troops. ADADSouth Korea’s top negotiator, Jeong Eun-bo, said there is a “significant difference” between proposals put forward by the two sides. ADAround 300 protesters gathered outside the venue where the talks began Monday accusing the United States of “robbery,” South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported. The Trump administration is set to begin separate defense funding negotiations with Japan and NATO next year.

Source: Washington Post November 19, 2019 09:51 UTC