President Donald Trump announced on Sunday a directive for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to significantly decrease joint military exercises with South Korea. This decision comes as a result of Trump’s positive rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Trump mentioned the financial burden associated with the military drills as a primary motivation. He also expressed a desire to avoid sending a message that could be perceived as inappropriate or aggressive towards North Korea.
In addition, Trump criticized South Korea for its lack of assistance with matters concerning Iran.