North Korea has sharply criticized the deployment of US B-1B strategic bombers during a recent joint military exercise with South Korea, calling it a "open threat" to the country's security, News.bg reports.
In a statement released by the state-run KCNA agency, a spokesman for the North Korean Defense Ministry called the US actions "reckless bluff" and "routine military practice" that threatens Pyongyang's national security.
The joint exercise, held on Tuesday, involved B-1B bombers and fighter jets from both sides. According to South Korea's Defense Ministry, the purpose of the exercise was to demonstrate joint defense capabilities and enhance operational readiness.
In response to the exercise, North Korea threatened retaliation, calling it a serious provocation. Pyongyang regularly denounces such joint military activities, viewing them as rehearsals for an invasion of the country. In the past, such exercises have been followed by North Korean missile tests and other military demonstrations.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, the South Korean and U.S. air forces began a two-week joint exercise known as "Flag of Freedom", which includes the participation of fifth-generation "stealth" fighters imitating enemy forces. This exercise is part of efforts to strengthen the two countries' joint defense capabilities in the region.
Current events highlight the rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula and the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation.