U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to significantly reduce the annual joint military exercises with South Korea, linking the decision to Seoul’s refusal to support the United States in its campaign against Iran.
Trump argued that the exercises are costly and “send a completely inappropriate and hostile signal” to North Korea. According to Trump, Pyongyang has been “non-threatening and respectful” during his time in the White House.
“Therefore, and since it is too late to cancel them, I have directed the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to significantly reduce the Joint Military Exercises,” Trump said.
The U.S. president also said that he had recently asked South Korean President Lee Jae Myung whether his country would join the United States in efforts to “denuclearize” Iran. According to Trump, Seoul’s response was: “No, thank you!”
Trump and other officials in his administration have also sharply criticized NATO allies over their lack of support for the U.S. campaign against Iran.
The 11-day exercises, involving approximately 18,000 South Korean troops, are designed to enhance military readiness against potential threats from North Korea.
The U.S. military has stated that the summer “Ulchi Freedom Shield” exercises strengthen “the alliance’s role as a key pillar for regional peace and security” and reaffirm the “unwavering commitment” of the United States and South Korea to defending their territories.
“Ulchi Freedom Shield” is one of two major joint exercises conducted annually by the United States and South Korea, alongside their joint spring exercise.
