The US and South Korean armies began the largest military exercise in recent years against North Korea's nuclear threats. Aircraft, warships, tanks and tens of thousands of soldiers will take part in the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise in South Korea, which will continue until September 1. Within the framework of the exercise, simulation attack exercises, weapons and fuel reinforcement on the front, and efforts to neutralize weapons of mass destruction will be carried out. In the exercise, soldiers will also receive training on armed drone strikes during the Russia-Ukraine war and other new developments in the war. As part of the training program, joint military-civil response exercises will also be held against attacks on ports, airports and large industrial facilities.
On the other hand, Washington and Seoul administrations stated that the exercise was for defensive purposes, while North Korea described the exercise as an invasion rehearsal.
The United States and South Korea had canceled some of the regular exercises in recent years due to the North Korean policy of the Donald Trump administration and the Covid-19 outbreak.
