President Donald Trump has directed the Pentagon to scale back joint military drills with South Korea, citing the country's refusal to join US efforts regarding Iran and his relationship with Kim Jong Un.

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he has instructed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce annual joint military exercises with South Korea. Trump stated the decision was influenced by South Korea's refusal to join the US in the "denuclearisation" of Iran and his positive relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. While Trump described the exercises as costly and hostile, South Korean officials stated that the drills would proceed as scheduled.

Scope and Context of the Exercises

The 11-day training event, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, began on Monday and involves approximately 18,000 South Korean soldiers. The exercises are one of two major annual combined drills conducted by the two nations, intended to bolster readiness against threats from North Korea. US military officials previously stated that the training was designed to reinforce the alliance's role in regional security and account for evolving threats, including North Korea's recent deployment of troops to support Russia in the war against Ukraine.

Expert and Official Reactions

The announcement marks a shift from recent months, during which the US administration praised South Korea for its increased defense spending and commitment to regional security. Experts, including Professor Leif-Eric Easley of Ewha University, have cautioned that scaling back these exercises could weaken deterrence, damage alliance coordination, and slow South Korea's progress in taking on greater responsibility for its own defense. They noted that the potential cost savings from downsizing are marginal compared to the strategic risks.