In cutting joint drills, Trump has given South Korea’s president what he wants. So why does Seoul look so uneasy?
Summary
President Donald Trump has cut joint military exercises with South Korea, a move that aligns with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s goal to reduce military tensions and encourage dialogue with North Korea. This decision has caused mixed reactions in South Korea, with some worried it weakens security and others seeing it as a chance for peace talks.Key Facts
- In August last year, South Korean President Lee said he would help President Trump act as a peacemaker with North Korea.
- Trump ended joint military drills with South Korea shortly before they were set to begin, announcing it on social media.
- Lee wants South Korea to take more control of its own defense and develop its nuclear submarine program.
- The move to cut drills is supported by South Korea’s political left but criticized by conservatives who call it a “security disaster.”
- Some South Koreans worry that the cut weakens their defense and may strain the U.S.-South Korea alliance.
- Progressive South Korean media see the decision as potentially helpful for dialogue with North Korea but regret the way Trump communicated it.
- Trust in U.S. commitment to South Korea has been declining, especially under Trump, due to a more transactional view of alliances.
- Many South Koreans support having their own nuclear deterrent as a backup to U.S. protection.
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