Kathmandu— President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to reduce planned joint military exercises with South Korea, citing a lack of support from Seoul regarding efforts to denuclearize Iran and emphasizing his rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The decision impacts drills scheduled to begin this week involving 18,000 South Korean soldiers, designed to enhance readiness against potential threats from North Korea. Trump announced the move via social media, stating that the exercises are costly and send an inappropriate signal given what he characterizes as a period of respectful relations with Pyongyang.

Rationale Behind Exercise Reduction

Trump explained his decision by referencing South Korea’s refusal to participate in U.S. efforts to denuclearize Iran, adding that the exercises were “totally inappropriate and hostile” given North Korea's recent behavior. He claimed North Korea has been “unthreatening and respectful” during his time in office. The president instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to “substantially reduce” the joint military drills, acknowledging it was too late for a full cancellation.

North Korean Response and Regional Concerns

The announcement follows recent threats from North Korea regarding the U.S.-South Korean exercises, which Pyongyang described as a “rehearsal for an aggressive war.” Experts note that North Korea frequently uses these drills as justification to escalate its own weapons testing and bolster domestic support for its leadership. The planned exercises were designed to simulate joint operations in complex scenarios, including live-fire training and equipment distribution.

History of Exercise Adjustments

This is not the first instance of Trump seeking to curtail these military exercises. During his initial term, he previously announced a suspension of wargames following a meeting with Kim Jong Un in Singapore, citing cost savings and a desire for productive negotiations. At that time, Trump stated he would halt the drills “unless and until we see the future negotiation is not going along like it should.” He also shared a recent photograph alongside Kim, noting their positive relationship despite an unfavorable depiction in the image.

The reduction of joint military exercises raises questions about the U.S.-South Korea alliance and its implications for regional security as North Korea continues to develop its weapons programs. Further developments are expected as the situation unfolds.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.