President Donald Trump said Sunday he has asked the U.S. Defense Department to significantly reduce the scale of joint military exercises with South Korea, emphasizing the move stems from the "very good" relationship he maintains with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Speaking to reporters, Trump did not provide specific details on the scope or timeline of the cuts, but asserted the decision is part of efforts to lower tensions on the Korean Peninsula and save defense spending. "I have a very good relationship with Kim," he said, adding that large-scale drills near the border are unnecessary amid ongoing dialogue.
This is not the first time Trump has mentioned adjusting U.S.-South Korea joint military activities. Previously, during his first term, he criticized the exercises as costly and provocative toward Pyongyang.
South Korea's reaction was not immediately available. However, observers suggest the decision could affect the joint defense posture of the U.S.-South Korea alliance, which has been maintained for decades to counter threats from North Korea.
There has been no official response from Pyongyang to Trump's latest statement.
