South Korea president calls for military independence in wake of Trump call to cut joint drills

South Korea's president Lee Jae Myung is reiterating his desire to bring full military command back under Seoul's control and is pushing for faster acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. The renewed push comes after Donald Trump instructed the Pentagon to substantially reduce this week's joint military exercises with South Korea, saying North Korea "has been unthreatening and respectful" and that he has a strong relationship with Kim Jong-un.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton