Trump hints at Kim contacts after scaling back Seoul drills

On Monday, US President Donald Trump hinted that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had responded to his recent overtures, following a day in which he reduced military exercises with South Korea and praised his relationship with Kim. Trump claimed that scaling back the drills made the situation much safer, as he had established ties with Kim, whom he met three times during his first term in office, but had not met during his second term.

While commending Kim, Trump criticized South Korea for failing to assist the US in a war against Iran, which Trump sees as a means to prevent the Islamic Republic from acquiring nuclear weapons. When questioned about whether Kim had responded to his requests for a conversation since taking office last year, Trump replied that he had, and expressed optimism about their talks.

Trump emphasized that their relationship had reduced tensions, stating that Kim treated him with great respect and that he understood both Kim and Kim understood him. Trump had initially criticized South Korea on his social media platform, stating that 39,000 US troops were guarding South Korea against Kim, yet South Korea was not helping the US in its war against Iran.

Both US and South Korean officials acknowledged that the drills were ongoing, and South Korean officials hoped that the personal rapport between Trump and Kim would facilitate their return to negotiations. North Korea has not publicly responded to Trump's remarks, though it has previously expressed displeasure over the joint military drills.

The US Senate Democrat on military affairs criticized Trump's decision to reduce the drills, claiming it was an "inane, haphazard decision" by Trump's chaotic administration. The drills, known as Ulchi Freedom Shield, are designed to prepare for a potential conflict with North Korea.