Lee ‘respects’ Trump’s move to cut military drills, stresses peace in Korea

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed respect for US President Donald Trump's decision to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea and pursue dialogue with North Korea, describing it as a "big decision" aimed at fostering peace on the Korean Peninsula. "President Trump's message strikes me as a big decision reflecting the profound thought he put into overcoming hostility and conflict to establish peace on the Korean Peninsula," Lee wrote on social media.

He acknowledged Trump's commitment to creating conditions for peace talks, despite the need to scale back military drills. On Sunday, Trump announced the reduction of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, which were scheduled to run from August 17 to 27, with the exercises to end on August 21. Lee emphasized the importance of peace, stating, "The ideal security asset is a peace regime in which there is no need to fight."

He expressed hope that Trump's decision would bolster confidence, restart talks between the US and North Korea, and lead to a stable peace regime on the peninsula. Lee reiterated South Korea's role as a "pacemaker" for Trump's "peacemaker," reflecting their previous discussions at the White House, G7, and NATO summits to address the Korean Peninsula's nuclear issue.

He reiterated his commitment to fulfilling this role and contributed to Trump's efforts. Lee also noted South Korea's willingness to engage in international efforts to restore freedom of passage in the Strait of Hormuz, while adhering to domestic laws and policies. He expressed his eagerness to convene with Trump in the near future.