In a move that encourages U.S. allies neighboring North Korea, the U.S. affirmed that it will continue joint military exercises with Japan. Japan has remained cautious and skeptical about the ongoing negotiations with North Korea, with the Japanese Defense Minister citing North Korea’s promise to end its nuclear programs in 1994 while continuing to research and develop them covertly for over two decades. The U.S. and Japan are also working to realign U.S. troop presence in the Pacific, as heavy U.S. presence in some areas since WWII has strained ties, especially in Okinawa.
Source: US, Japan agree to continue joint military exercises