North Korea Issues Measured Response to Upcoming US-South Korea Military Drills

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North Korea Issues Measured Response to Upcoming US-South Korea Military Drills

3 months ago

News sources:

REUTERS

SCMP

North Korea Issues Measured Response to Upcoming US-South Korea Military Drills

Credited from: REUTERS

North Korea warns of "provocative" US-South Korea military drills scheduled for August 18-28.
The North's Defense Minister issues a restrained statement, signaling an easing of tensions.
Seoul has postponed significant parts of the drills in an effort to improve relations.
Both Koreas have taken reciprocal steps to lower military hostility recently.

North Korea has denounced the upcoming joint military exercise, the Ulchi Freedom Shield, planned by South Korea and the United States, labeling it as a “direct military provocation." North Korean Defense Minister No Kwang Chol emphasized the military's readiness to respond decisively, arguing that the drills pose a real and dangerous threat to national security. He reaffirmed the regime's "absolute mission" to protect its sovereignty amid heightened military tensions in the region, according to Reuters and aa.

This year's military exercise has been adjusted, with about 20 of the originally scheduled drills postponed to next month, partly due to adverse weather and the South Korean government's desire to reduce hostilities. The postponement is interpreted as a diplomatic move by South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung to cool relations with Pyongyang and move away from the more aggressive policies of previous administrations, as noted by South China Morning Post and aa.

Reuters and South China Morning Post.