Pyongyang calls US-South Korea military exercises “provocative nuclear war rehearsal”

North Korea has sharply criticized the recent joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea, describing them as a “planned and provocative nuclear war rehearsal.”

The condemnation, issued by the disarmament and peace institute of North Korea’s Foreign Ministry, followed the conclusion of the 11-day Freedom Shield exercise held by the two nations, Caliber.Az reports citing Korean media.

Pyongyang vowed to continue bolstering its military capabilities in response to what it perceives as growing threats. North Korea argued that the drills, described as the "most aggressive and offensive" in history, have significantly heightened tensions in the region.

“The most formidable attack power that no one can stop and an overwhelming striking power is the surest guarantee to preventing war and effectively containing and controlling any threat and blackmail from aggressors,” the statement read. Pyongyang further emphasized that it would persist in its efforts to strengthen its military responses across all fronts to counter any perceived threats.

The North Korean condemnation came on the heels of the completion of Freedom Shield, which South Korea and the United States concluded on March 20. The drills are held annually, designed around an “all-out war scenario” to enhance the readiness and capabilities of both nations’ armed forces. While the exercises are officially termed defensive, Pyongyang views them as a direct provocation, heightening concerns over potential military escalation.

In a demonstration of its discontent, North Korea launched several ballistic missiles on the opening day of the Freedom Shield exercises, with reports suggesting they were likely short-range missiles. This missile test was seen as a clear signal of defiance against the ongoing military drills, which Pyongyang consistently labels as a threat to its sovereignty and security.

Washington and Seoul maintain that the annual exercises, which include both Freedom Shield in March and the Ulchi Freedom Shield in August, are purely defensive in nature, designed to improve joint operational readiness in the face of potential threats. However, North Korea continues to view them as provocative actions, exacerbating the already volatile situation on the Korean Peninsula.

By Vafa Guliyeva