North Korea issues fresh warning to US allies

North Korea has accused the United States, Japan and South Korea of creating a new security crisis in the

PYONGYANG: North Korea has accused the United States, Japan and South Korea of creating a new security crisis in the Asia-Pacific, claiming their expanding military cooperation is increasing regional tensions and threatening stability.

In a commentary published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), a military commentator alleged that the three allies are strengthening their joint combat capabilities through large-scale military exercises and closer defence coordination.

The statement specifically criticized the recently concluded Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) naval exercise, describing it as a rehearsal for military aggression rather than a routine multinational drill. According to North Korean officials, the exercise involved more than 30,000 personnel, over 30 warships, five submarines and nearly 190 aircraft.

Pyongyang claimed the United States is attempting to strengthen its military influence across the Asia-Pacific with the support of Japan and South Korea. It also objected to recent US-South Korea air force and logistics exercises, plans to expand American military command structures in Japan and the deployment of advanced US missile systems in the region.

North Korea warned that it would respond to what it described as growing military threats by further strengthening its own deterrence capabilities. Officials said any increase in external pressure would be met with corresponding defensive measures.

Separately, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry rejected recent accusations by the United States and its allies that Pyongyang poses a growing cyber threat. The ministry dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and without evidence.

A foreign ministry spokesperson argued that the United States has been expanding military activities in cyberspace through cyber commands, joint cyber exercises and the use of artificial intelligence in defence operations. The spokesperson claimed Washington, rather than Pyongyang, was contributing to rising tensions in the cyber domain.

North Korea reaffirmed that it would continue taking measures to safeguard its national security and protect its development interests against what it described as increasing pressure from Western countries.