Trump opens door to talks with North Korea's Kim with downsized drills

International relationsPyongyang says recognition of nuclear power status must come before dialogueU.S. President Donald Trump meets with North Korean leader Kim Kong Un in Singapore in 2018. © APJUNNOSUKE KOBARA and ERIKA KOBAYASHIAugust 18, 2026 02:52 JSTWASHINGTON/SEOUL -- U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered a reduction in this month's joint military exercises with South Korea, apparently aiming to draw North Korean leader Kim Jong Un into talks.