The recent "Flag of Freedom" joint air exercise between the US and South Korea has heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea viewing it as a significant threat to its national security. The exercise includes stealth fighters and is part of a long-standing tradition of joint military drills between the two countries. This year's deployment of B-1B strategic bombers has been met with criticism from North Korea, with the country's Defense Ministry spokesperson calling it a "reckless bluff" and a "routine military practice".
The US and South Korea's actions are seen as an attempt to demonstrate their military capabilities and deter potential aggression from North Korea. In response, North Korea has vowed to take measures to counter the exercise, including increasing its own military presence in the region. The situation is a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions between the two countries, with each side accusing the other of provoking unnecessary escalation.
The "Flag of Freedom" exercise is set to continue for another week, and it remains to be seen how North Korea will respond to the continued US-South Korean military presence in the region.