“For years, the U.S. and South Korea militaries have participated in one of the largest military exercises in the world, with thousands of troops from both countries preparing for possible North Korea aggression,” the New York Times reports.
“On President Trump’s orders, the Pentagon curtailed this year’s exercises and scaled back some live-fire components of the drill, which were already underway.”
“Current and former military officials say the move is likely to undercut U.S. military readiness in the region at a time when allies are questioning the Trump administration’s commitment to longstanding partnerships and countering China.”
“The president’s decision is also unlikely to affect the person he hoped to sway: North Korea’s dictator, Kim Jong-un.”
CNBC: Trump scaling down U.S.-South Korea drills risks more than just joint military readiness.
