U.S. halts military exercise with South Korea

UPDATE: Military exercise in South Korea resumes amid tensions

WASHINGTON — U.S. defense officials say America's annual military exercise with South Korea has been halted as tensions with North Korea spike and Pyongyang issues threats of war.

The officials say the U.S. is monitoring the situation, but hasn't taken any other military steps. It was unclear if the exercise would resume.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday declared his front-line troops in a "quasi-state of war" and ordered them to prepare for battle against South Korea in response to an exchange of artillery fire on the border Thursday.

The annual exercise began Monday and was slated to end next Friday.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to discuss the matter publicly.

In Other News

Officials launch task force to root out ‘anti-Christian bias’ in VA

The move follows an order by President Donald Trump to look for evidence of discrimination against Christians throughout the federal government.

Thousands of military families use child care app devised by airman

The app allows parents to sublet their child care spaces when they’re temporarily away, connecting them to other eligible DOD families who need the care.

Senate leaders set May 7 hearing to review VA budget, reform plans

VA Secretary Dog Collins will face sharp questions about his department overhaul efforts from the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee next month.

Military families challenge Trump’s stricter federal voting rules

An organization that advocates for military voters argues a new executive order would add barriers for troops and families who vote by absentee ballot.

House vets chairman backs VA staffing cuts but promises oversight

Rep. Mike Bost said he trusts that administration plans to dramatically reduce the VA workforce will not cut into veterans benefits and care.

Load More