이 대통령 “한미훈련 축소, 트럼프 결단 경의…한반도 평화 기대”

President Yoon Jae-myung expressed on the 19th his understanding that President Donald Trump's order to reduce joint military exercises between the US and South Korea and to reopen negotiations between North and South Korea were significant decisions aimed at achieving peace on the Korean Peninsula. In a message sent later that night, President Yoon acknowledged his sympathy for Trump's determination and efforts to foster conditions for peace in the Korean Peninsula through the reduction of joint South Korean-US military exercises and outdoor combat training.

On the 16th, Trump had suggested a meeting with North Korea's Vice Chairman of the National Defense Commission, Kim Jong-un, and ordered a reduction in the joint military exercise, "Ulljin Freedom Shield." The joint chiefs of staff announced the training would be shortened from the original plan of 17th to 27th to 21st. President Yoon stressed that a peaceful regime is the best security asset and expressed his hope that Trump's decision would lead to stable peace in the Korean Peninsula through trust-building between the two nations and dialogue.

He highlighted the "peace maker" role once again, recalling his request to Trump to play the role of "peace maker" when they first met at the White House about a year ago. President Yoon also recalled his discussions with Trump on peace recovery in the Korean Peninsula and resolving the nuclear issue during the G7 and NATO summits.

He emphasized that he would strive to promote Trump's "peace maker" activities as much as possible. President Yoon affirmed that the Republic of Korea government would actively participate in the international community's efforts for a free reunification in the East Sea and would continue to communicate closely with the US on various practical contribution methods within the legal and policy limits.

He concluded by expressing his anticipation of a future reunion with President Trump in the United States.