South Korea tests Arctic route with a first container shipped to Europe
Reaching Europe from Asia via the Arctic is nothing new... Russia and China have used this route for years. But yesterday, South Korea sent its first container ship along this path to avoid the traffic blockade in the Middle East. Experts warn the shift could further accelerate the melting of polar ice.
US President Donald Trump's decision to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea could potentially hinder efforts to have Seoul take greater responsibility for its own defense, according to the White House. The Ulchi Freedom Shield drills, which involve thousands of troops, have been cut in half at Washington's request due to concerns about antagonizing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and the high costs associated with the exercises.
Trump posted on social media that the drills "send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile" and appeared to try to appease Kim, who the president is eager to meet again. However, critics argue that these exercises are meant to demonstrate deterrence and defense capabilities, not territorial aggression. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has expressed support for Trump's stance on South Korea taking more responsibility for its security, but questions the sudden change in plans, as South Korea already possesses the military capability to defend itself.
The current arrangement, where wartime control lies with the United States, has been in place since 1994, despite calls for change over the years.
Written by urgent.news from Egypt Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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