Trump orders reduction of U.S.-South Korea military drills

President Donald Trump has ordered a substantial reduction in the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea. In a Truth Social post, Trump characterized the exercises as costly and argued they send a signal that is ‘totally inappropriate and hostile.’

The directive comes amid growing friction in the long-standing alliance, fueled by disagreements over trade, military commitments, and diplomatic approaches toward North Korea. U.S. Forces Korea commander Gen. Xavier Brunson has met with South Korean defense officials to discuss the implementation of the scale-back.

The decision follows a period of regional tension, including North Korea firing approximately ten short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern waters. While the 2025 exercise involved roughly 21,000 soldiers, the specific portions of the 2026 exercise to be cut have not yet been publicly identified. Recent polling indicates a decline in South Korean public confidence regarding the United States as a reliable defense partner.