SEOUL—North Korea reacted with indifference to the United
States' decision to significantly reduce its joint military exercises with
South Korea, arguing that the measure does not alter what Pyongyang considers a
threat to its security.
Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and
one of the regime's top political figures, stated that the reduction in the
maneuvers "does not merit comment" and that North Korea has no
interest in the decision.
However, she immediately afterward questioned the nature of
the exercises, maintaining that their "provocative and aggressive"
character remains unchanged, even with the reduction in duration and scale.
The statement came after US President Donald Trump ordered
the Pentagon to substantially reduce joint military exercises with South Korea.
The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises began on August 17 and were originally
scheduled to continue until August 27.
The exercises include training designed to respond to
threats such as drone attacks, GPS jamming, and cyber operations, as well as
scenarios related to South Korea's defense.
Pyongyang's stance contrasts with the expectation that
reducing the maneuvers could help ease tensions on the peninsula. North Korea
has historically denounced these exercises as preparations for an invasion,
while Washington and Seoul maintain they are defensive in nature.