USFK commander visits defense ministry after Trump's order to reduce joint exercise with S. Korea

U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson paid a visit to the defense ministry on Tuesday to discuss a meeting with Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back, following President Donald Trump's directive to reduce joint exercises with South Korea. The general was seen by some reporters entering the ministry headquarters in Yongsan, central Seoul, and subsequently leaving the premises.

When probed about the reason for his visit, Brunson opted not to provide specifics, merely confirming his presence to meet with Ahn. Trump's order to scale down the exercise came on the same day the allied Ulchi Freedom Shield drill commenced, set to run for 11 days until August 27. The primary focus of the drills is to prepare for contingencies against North Korea.

In his announcement, Trump cited a financial burden and his cordial relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un as the reasons for the reduction in the exercise scale.