NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 17, 2026Hillsborough
President Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea
President Trump has instructed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to substantially reduce the scope of ongoing joint military exercises with South Korea. The directive follows South Korea's refusal to join U.S. efforts regarding Iran and the President's stated desire to maintain positive relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
The reduction of these exercises impacts the readiness and operational coordination of 18,000 South Korean soldiers and U.S. forces intended to deter regional threats.
Key Facts
- President Trump ordered the Pentagon to scale back joint military exercises with South Korea.
- The exercises involve 18,000 South Korean soldiers and were designed to test joint precision targeting and maneuver operations.
- The exercises began on Monday and were scheduled to last 11 days.
- The President cited South Korea's refusal to assist in U.S. efforts against Iran as a reason for the reduction.
- North Korea recently resumed ballistic missile testing in defiance of U.N. bans.
- Senator Mark Kelly publicly criticized the decision as shortsighted.
- The U.S. military previously described these exercises as the 'linchpin for regional peace and security'.
- North Korea has threatened 'stern steps' in response to the drills, labeling them a rehearsal for war.
Who's Mentioned
personKim Jong Un“Leader of North Korea”personDonald Trump“President of the United States”locationNorth Korea“Regional adversary”personMark Kelly“Democratic Senator”locationSouth Korea“U.S. ally”other300“Number of nationals detained at Georgia Hyundai plant”personPete Hegseth“Secretary of War”other18,000“Number of South Korean soldiers involved in exercises”