World

Very Good Relationship with Kim’: Trump Cuts Back South Korea War Drills

Published: 17 August 2026 · 1 min read

What Happened

US President Donald Trump said he has ordered the Pentagon to“substantially reduce” the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield joint military exercises with South Korea, citing his“very good relationship” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The drills began on August 17 and were scheduled to run until August 27.

Key Takeaways

The move marks a significant shift in US policy toward the Korean Peninsula and could affect regional security dynamics. However, South Korea's military said the exercises were proceeding as scheduled, and it remains unclear how the planned reduction will be implemented.

Sources

WION