General: Stopping US-South Korea exercises diminished readiness

The decision to cancel major military exercises on the Korean Peninsula this year caused a slight degradation in the ability of American and Korean forces to work together and remain ready to fight, the U.S. general nominated to command troops in South Korea told senators Tuesday.

Gen. Robert Abrams said that commanders are planning a number of smaller staff exercises to rebuild the ability of U.S. and allied forces to operate together. And he was noncommittal when asked whether the major exercises currently being planned for next year will be held.