Korea latest casualty of Trump’s misplaced frustration over mess in Iran, says US media outlet

US media outlet Axios has reported that South Korea has become the latest victim of US President Donald Trump's pressure campaign against allies who have not backed his offensive against Iran. Trump's new rule for US partners is to "cross him in one theater and the consequences will follow you into the next." This policy is a result of Trump's frustration and disappointment with allies who have not participated in the war in Iran.

South Korea, which US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently praised as a model ally, is the "latest and most surprising casualty in Trump's retribution campaign." The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, a joint US-South Korea military drill that has served as a pillar of deterrence against North Korea, have been substantially reduced by Trump. This decision was reportedly made in light of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's relationship with Trump and Seoul's refusal to assist in Iran's denuclearization efforts.

Trump's pressure campaign extends beyond South Korea, as Bloomberg reports that the Pentagon has sent a loyalty questionnaire to NATO allies. The survey asks whether these countries have supported Trump's foreign policy, placed restrictions on US military use of their bases, and bought US weapons. Germany has openly criticized Trump's strategy in Iran, leading to the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from the country.

Spain has barred the US from using its bases for attacks on Iran, prompting Trump to threaten to cut off all trade with the country and even suggesting the expulsion of Spain from NATO.

Concerns are growing that the reduction in joint military drills with South Korea could negatively impact the US military's readiness posture. Experts argue that Trump's unpredictable approach damages the solidarity that underpins these relationships, often insulting allies in the process.