US, South Korea Relations Strain Over Political Tensions, Defense Disputes

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed strong concerns about political instability in South Korea, describing the situation as resembling a "purge or revolution," which he warned could impede business relations ahead of a summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. These remarks have heightened tensions within the longstanding U.S.-South Korea alliance, with South Korean Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho accusing Trump of distorting facts about President Lee and the ruling liberal party. The political unrest in South Korea is linked to ongoing investigations involving a special prosecutor and former President Yoon Suk Yeol, contributing to diplomatic unease. Meanwhile, exchanges of fire and reported North Korean soldier intrusions along the inter-Korean border have further intensified regional instability. The mounting uncertainties over defense and trade issues underscore the fragile state of relations between the United States and South Korea as leaders prepare for high-level talks.