Freedom Shield: The USA and South Korea Begin Joint Military Exercises.

Washington and Seoul have commenced their annual military exercises

On Monday, Washington and Seoul began their annual military exercises called 'Freedom Shield', aimed at strengthening their joint defense capabilities against threats from North Korea.

According to Yonhap news agency, this year's exercises, which will last until March 20, are the first since the inauguration of US President Donald Trump and reaffirm American security guarantees to South Korea.

These exercises are being conducted in the context of a rapprochement between North Korea and Russia in military cooperation. The threat is the possibility of Moscow transferring equipment and assistance to Pyongyang for the development of its own arms programs.

The program of the exercises includes combat operation modeling, command-staff training, and practical drills to enhance the joint actions of the armed forces of the two allied countries. In 2025, 16 large-scale exercises are planned – six more than last year.

According to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, about 19,000 military personnel will participate in the exercises. Information regarding the American contingent and the equipment used is not disclosed.

Due to a recent incident where aerial bombs were accidentally dropped outside the range, it was decided to cancel the live-fire training. The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.

North Korea has already expressed furious statements, threatening Washington and Seoul with 'horrible consequences for dangerous provocations.'