U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday reiterated his call to scale back South Korea-U.S. military exercises and his very good relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, as he seeks to reengage with Kim this year. He said the drills were costly and sent an inappropriate and hostile signal to North Korea. The post came amid speculation that he may seek a meeting with Kim during his next trip to Asia, likely for the APEC summit in Shenzhen in November.
U.S. President Donald Trump, right, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un / Korea Times file
WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday reiterated his earlier remarks about a directive to scale back South Korea-U.S. military exercises and his "very good" relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, as he seeks to reengage with Kim this year.
Trump posted the message on social media, which was identical to his Aug. 16 post, except for a change in tense, amid speculation that he could pursue a meeting with Kim during his next trip to Asia, likely for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, in November.
Earlier this month, he instructed the Pentagon to "substantially" scale back the allied military exercises. Subsequently, Seoul and Washington shortened the duration of the annual combined Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise to five days from 11 days, with other field training events reduced or canceled.
