South Korea shortens war games with US, citing Washington request
Summary
South Korea will shorten its 2026 joint military drills with the US by six days, ending them on August 21 instead of August 27. This change comes after President Trump requested the reduction, linking it to South Korea’s refusal to assist in US efforts related to Iran and his desire to improve relations with North Korea.Key Facts
- The 2026 Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises between South Korea and the US will be reduced in both time and scale.
- The drills will now end on August 21, six days earlier than originally planned.
- The US side proposed the change, according to South Korea’s defense ministry.
- President Trump wants to reduce these exercises, citing cost and a desire to improve ties with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
- South Korean and US officials were not informed in advance about President Trump’s plans.
- The combined field training part of the drills will also be partially scaled back, with details still being discussed.
- President Trump has asked South Korea to help the US in a military effort concerning Iran, but South Korea declined.
- Approximately 18,000 South Korean soldiers usually participate in the exercises, with about 28,500 US troops stationed in South Korea.
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