U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis has reaffirmed the strength of the South Korea-U.S. alliance,... noting that recent developments on the peninsula have further intensified that bond.<br /> Referring to a recent phone call with Seoul's Defense Minister Song Young-moo, Mattis said the two sides are collaborating well and remain in constant contact.<br /> That sentiment was also reflected by a visiting U.S. diplomat in charge of Korea affairs.<br />Mark Lambert said Tuesday that he does not plan to discuss the withdrawal of U.S. forces in South Korea with officials in Seoul. <br /> Reflecting the strong alliance,... U.S. F-22 Raptor fighter jets have arrived in South Korea.<br />Military officials say the jets will be taking part in the two-week-long "Max Thunder" exercise that begins next week. <br />
