Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:30pm on 17 Aug 2026,Monday International
US President Donald Trump has said the US will “substantially reduce” joint military exercises with South Korea, citing his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Trump also criticised Seoul for declining to join the US in efforts over Iran’s nuclear programme. South Korea said it was reviewing his comments, while its military had earlier confirmed the annual drills would proceed as scheduled. About 18,000 South Korean troops are expected to participate in the 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise, with around 28,500 US troops stationed in South Korea. Experts warned that reducing the drills could weaken alliance coordination and deterrence against North Korea. (PC: BBC)
