Korean drills shortened as Trump seeks Kim talks
South Korea and the United States will cut short the Ulchi Freedom Shield drills by six days at Washington's request, with some live training components reduced. The Pentagon confirmed substantial cutbacks as President Trump indicated he wants talks with Kim Jong-un and cited the costly nature of the exercises. Seoul said it was not informed in advance and will continue coordinating with Washington, amid ongoing speculation about a possible summit and future changes to US troop activities in Korea.