Trump instructs Pentagon to reduce military exercises with South Korea
US President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon to cut joint military drills with South Korea, citing costs and Seoul’s refusal to join any action against Iran.
Source: Free Malaysia Today · August 16, 2026 at 10:32 PM · AI-assisted report
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SEOUL, 17 AUGUST 2026 —
Trump orders Pentagon to scale back US-South Korea military drills
WASHINGTON, Aug 16 — US President Donald Trump has directed the Pentagon to significantly reduce joint military exercises with South Korea, citing high costs and Seoul’s refusal to support US actions against Iran. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he was “not happy” that the US had previously agreed to participate in the drills, which he described as costly and unnecessarily provocative toward North Korea.
He also highlighted his “very good relationship” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield joint military drills between the US and South Korea are scheduled to take place from Aug 17 to 27. Trump’s instruction comes amid tensions over South Korea’s stance on the US-Israel conflict with Iran, with the US president noting Seoul declined an offer to participate in efforts to denuclearise Iran. Details of the planned reductions to the exercises were not immediately available.
The move follows Trump’s broader efforts to recalibrate US military commitments in Asia, including his stated desire to ease tensions with North Korea. Analysts suggest the decision may reflect Trump’s transactional approach to alliances, prioritising cost efficiency and diplomatic flexibility over traditional military cooperation.
The Pentagon has yet to issue a formal response. South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense has not commented on the matter. The exercises remain on schedule for this month, though their scope may be adjusted. Further details are expected in the coming days.
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