the Guardian
World
South Korea Seeks Military Command Shift After US Drills Reduction
The South Korean president has renewed calls for independent wartime military control following a US decision to scale back joint exercises.
Added 8/18/2026

South Korea's president has revived efforts to secure full wartime operational control of the military and pressed for faster development of nuclear-powered submarines. This move comes after Donald Trump directed the Pentagon to significantly decrease joint military training, pointing to friendly relations with Kim Jong-un and describing North Korea as respectful.
During a cabinet meeting, Lee Jae Myung stated that the transition of wartime operational control to Seoul should continue without delay during his presidency. As reported by the Guardian, the leader emphasized that building national defense capabilities simultaneously reinforces the security partnership with the United States.
Ultimately, the South Korean leader maintained that enhancing domestic military strength directly increases the country's value and importance as a security partner.
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