President Donald Trump is escalating pressure on U.S. allies as the Iran conflict continues without a final peace agreement, according to Axios.
South Korea is the latest ally facing consequences. Trump ordered the Pentagon to substantially reduce the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, citing their cost and Seoul’s decision not to join U.S. efforts involving Iran. The drills have long supported deterrence against North Korea.
At the same time, the war is highlighting challenges for U.S. hard power. The 60-day deadline for an Iran peace deal expired without an agreement, while the Strait of Hormuz remains unresolved.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly defended Trump’s approach, saying the president is demanding reciprocal relationships while advancing U.S. interests.
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Trump torches allies as Iran exposes limits of hard power https://t.co/kx35v3xRB1
— Axios (@axios) August 18, 2026
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