Seoul: The presidential office expressed optimism on Monday that the relationship between North Korean and U.S. leaders could pave the way for bilateral discussions on peace in the Korean Peninsula. This follows President Donald Trump's recent directive to reduce joint military exercises with South Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the statement was issued in light of Trump's social media announcement on Sunday, where he declared his instruction to the Pentagon to "substantially" scale back the joint military activities with South Korea. Trump described these exercises as "costly" and "totally inappropriate and hostile" toward North Korea, signaling a potential gesture toward diplomacy.
The announcement coincided with the planned commencement of the Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise in South Korea. North Korea has historically criticized these drills as preparation for an invasion. The presidential office in Seoul acknowledged Trump's message, expressing hope that the amicable ties between the North Korean and U.S. leaders would lead to meaningful discussions and further peace efforts on the peninsula. Cheong Wa Dae committed to acting as a "pacemaker" in these efforts.
The White House has reiterated that Trump is open to engaging in dialogue with Pyongyang without preconditions. During his first term, Trump met North Korean leader Kim Jong-un three times: in Singapore, Hanoi, and the inter-Korean border village of Panmunjom.
Seoul and Washington have maintained a coordinated approach to defense, involving joint drills and exercises, and plan to continue this collaboration. The presidential office also highlighted South Korea's involvement in international ceasefire discussions in Iran and efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, with ongoing consultations with the U.S. on military contributions.
In his Sunday post, Trump mentioned a conversation with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, in which he inquired about Seoul's interest in participating in efforts to denuclearize Iran, receiving a polite refusal.