# Trump orders Pentagon to reduce military exercises with South Korea as annual drills begin

https://mins.news/en/video/24187

- CNA, 2026-08-17 12:55 UTC
- Politics
- Original: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=883Sp-QdRv0

> US President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to substantially reduce military exercises with South Korea, citing their cost, Seoul’s refusal to join Washington’s efforts on Iran and his “good relationship” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield drills began today and run until Aug 27, with about 18,000 South Korean troops taking part. Seoul says improved US-North Korea ties could enable meaningful dialogue.

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- [US–North Korea Relations and North Korea Policy](https://mins.news/en/topic/us-north-korea-relations) — Markdown: https://mins.news/en/topic/us-north-korea-relations.md

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