The United States and South Korea, at Washington’s request, cut the scale of the annual military exercises “Freedom Shield of Ulchi” by nearly half. The exercises, which were expected to be held for 10 days, will now end on August 21.

The U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) said that the number of operational drills has been reduced and some have been canceled or replaced with simulations, while the main readiness objectives for combat will still be maintained.

The move comes a few days after President Trump’s request to reduce these exercises. Trump, citing his “very good” relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, argued that the exercises send an “entirely inappropriate and hostile” signal to Pyongyang.