In this series, The Korea Herald interviews members of the National Assembly to discuss important political events and issues impacting Seoul and beyond from South Korea's center of power in Yeouido. According to Rep. Han Ki-ho, the former US President Donald Trump's suggestion of potentially withdrawing troops from South Korea was seen as "election rhetoric" that does not reflect the mainstream thinking in Washington. Han, who chairs the National Assembly's national defense committee and recently won a fourth term in the Assembly, believes that Trump's statements were aimed at garnering votes and are unlikely to be implemented. He also expressed skepticism about the US Congress supporting such a proposal, citing legal constraints and the strategic importance of US military presence in South Korea as a check on Beijing. Furthermore, Han highlighted concerns that the US troop withdrawal from South Korea could lead to increased pressure for South Korea to pursue nuclear weapons, especially in the face of uncertainties posed by the previous Trump administration's policies. While acknowledging the strengthened alliance between South Korea and the US, as outlined in the Washington Declaration, Han emphasized the need for South Korea to be prepared for potential scenarios and to bolster diplomatic efforts to ensure that troop withdrawal does not occur, regardless of the US president elected in November. Let me know if you need anything else.