North Korea said on Monday that joint naval exercises planned by the United States, South Korea and Japan in September pose a threat to it and countries in the region, accusing Washington of continuing a hostile policy toward it, while Seoul insists the drills are defensive in nature.
The three countries are scheduled to hold the Freedom Edge exercises from 7 to 11 September in international waters east and south of South Korea's Jeju Island.
Accusations Against Washington
North Korea's Foreign Ministry said in a statement published by the official Korean Central News Agency, or KCNA, that the US military's plan to conduct multidomain joint exercises poses a threat to North Korea and countries in the region.
A ministry spokesman accused the United States of continuing what he described as hostile aerial espionage and military provocations. He added that US President Donald Trump's administration had confirmed, in his words, that it would continue a policy targeting North Korea's sovereignty, political system and security interests.
The spokesman said his country's nuclear arsenal, under these circumstances, represents an option for ensuring peace and security in the region, describing nuclear weapons as a guarantee for defending sovereignty.
Drills Began After Camp David Summit
The Freedom Edge exercises were held for the first time in June 2024, following an agreement reached by the leaders of the United States, South Korea and Japan during the 2023 Camp David summit.
Pyongyang's position comes after the conclusion of the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises between Washington and Seoul, whose duration was reduced from 11 days to five, and coincides with Trump's call for a new meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
No Response to Trump's Initiatives
Pyongyang did not respond to Trump's initiatives, according to the source material, and continued launching missiles and criticising military drills. It also condemned Washington's approval of arms deals for South Korea and plans to fund programmes documenting human rights violations in the North.
