South Korea Unaware of Trump's Remarks on Military Drill Reduction, Minister Says

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun revealed that the government was completely unaware of former U.S. President Donald Trump's comments regarding the reduction of joint military drills. Trump had posted his remarks on social media.

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We were also not notified in advance.

Cho Hyun stated at a National Assembly committee meeting that the South Korean government, along with U.S. officials, had no prior knowledge of Trump's statement. She explained that while the Ministry of National Defense had been in close consultation with the U.S. after Trump's post, the specifics of the decision were still not fully communicated to her ministry.

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I understand that the Minister of National Defense has been in close consultation with the U.S. side after President Trump's Truth Social post.

The announcement has led to a political dispute between the ruling and opposition parties, with differing views on the significance and impact of scaling back the 'Ulchi Freedom Shield' exercises. The exact details of the reduced drill schedule and the decision-making process remain subjects of ongoing discussion and clarification.

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I understand it was decided through that consultation, but I have not yet heard the detailed content from the Ministry of National Defense.