North Korea Warns of Retaliation Against US-South Korea Ulchi Drills

North Korea has strongly condemned the upcoming joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States, labeling them as a direct military provocation and a serious threat to regional security. Defense Minister No Kwang Chol stated that the North Korean military will respond with resolute counteraction if provoked, emphasizing their sovereign right to self-defense. The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise, scheduled from August 18 to 28, aims to enhance command control and troop mobilization amid heightened nuclear tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Despite recent signs of easing tensions between Seoul and Pyongyang, including border measures such as removing propaganda loudspeakers, North Korea continues to view these drills as rehearsals for war and a destabilizing factor. The U.S. and South Korea postponed a major part of the field exercise due to weather, a move seen as influenced by South Korea's new leadership seeking reduced hostility. Analysts note that North Korea's stance reflects its ongoing military buildup and alliance with Russia, as well as its opposition to U.S. military presence and activities in the region.