North Korea shrugs off Trump’s scaled-back drills with South Korea, saying it changes nothing
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea said Wednesday that a U.S. decision to scale back military exercises with South Korea does not change what it sees as the provocative nature of the drills, dampening hopes for an early resumption of diplomacy between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump.
TL;DR
- North Korea dismisses U.S. reduction of military drills with South Korea, stating it doesn't change their provocative nature.
- Kim Yo Jong denies communications between Trump and Kim Jong Un, but notes their relations remain excellent.
- U.S. and South Korea confirm drastic slashing of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, which will now end Friday instead of August 27.
- The Pentagon states adjustments preserve essential readiness and training objectives, with no degradation.
- South Korean officials were not informed of Trump's decision prior to his social media post.
- Some experts suggest Trump's move is to pressure South Korea regarding support for the U.S. over Iran.
- Trump cited South Korea's refusal to support him over Iran as a reason for the drill reduction.
- North Korea denies reports of sending troops to support Russia's war in Ukraine.
- Prospects for a Trump-Kim summit remain unclear, with North Korea likely seeking bigger concessions.