Key facts
- South Korea and the U.S. have shortened their joint military exercise, Ulchi Freedom Shield.
- The decision to reduce the exercise duration followed an order from President Trump.
- The drills will now conclude on Friday, nearly two weeks earlier than originally planned.
- USFK Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson met with South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back.
South Korea and the United States have significantly reduced the duration of their joint military exercise, Ulchi Freedom Shield, in response to an order from President Trump. The exercise, which was scheduled to conclude on August 27, will now end on Friday, nearly halving its length. USFK Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson met with South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back following the directive.