In a statement released through the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), a spokesperson for the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the planned drills as a “rehearsal for invasion” and claimed they would "inevitably trigger a corresponding military response."
"The U.S. and its puppets in South Korea are pushing the situation to the brink of war," the statement read. "Our armed forces will not sit idle. The hostile acts of Washington will be met with our style of deterrent."
The annual joint drills, scheduled to begin next week, are designed to enhance coordination between U.S. and South Korean forces in the event of a North Korean attack. While largely defensive in nature, the exercises have long been a flashpoint for Pyongyang, which views them as provocative and destabilizing.
In Washington, the Pentagon responded by reaffirming its commitment to the security of the Korean Peninsula.
"These exercises are routine, transparent, and defensive," said Brig. Gen. Laura Hastings, a Pentagon spokesperson. "They are essential to ensuring readiness and maintaining peace and stability in the region."
South Korean officials also defended the drills, describing them as "necessary in light of North Korea's escalating missile activity and continued threats."
Just last week, North Korea conducted its third missile test in a month, launching a short-range ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan. Analysts believe Pyongyang is using its weapons program not only as a show of strength but also as leverage ahead of any potential diplomatic re-engagement.
"This is classic brinkmanship," said Dr. Lee Hyun-woo, a professor of security studies at Seoul National University. "North Korea is trying to draw a line and make the cost of military cooperation between Seoul and Washington as high as possible."
The United Nations has yet to comment on the latest warning, but diplomatic sources indicate that member states are watching the situation closely. Meanwhile, China—North Korea’s main ally—called for "calm and restraint" from all sides, urging the parties to avoid escalating the conflict further.
As regional militaries increase surveillance and readiness levels, fears are growing that a miscalculation or unintended confrontation could ignite a larger crisis.
For now, both sides appear unwilling to back down, setting the stage for a volatile few weeks on the Korean Peninsula.