June 22nd 2024.
Over the weekend, a nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier made its way to South Korea to participate in a joint military exercise involving Japan. This training was designed to help the three countries better handle the increasing threats from North Korea, especially after their recent security pact with Russia.
The USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group arrived in Busan on Saturday, just one day after South Korea called in the Russian ambassador to express their concern over a major deal between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The agreement, which promises mutual defense assistance in the event of war, has raised red flags for South Korea and has even prompted them to consider sending arms to Ukraine to combat Russian aggression. This decision, however, would likely damage their relationship with Moscow.
The joint exercise, known as Freedom Edge drills, was announced in June after a meeting between the defense chiefs of the United States, South Korea, and Japan in Singapore. The Roosevelt strike group will be taking part in the drills, which are expected to begin this month. While South Korea's military has not released specific details about the training, Rear Admiral Christopher Alexander, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine, explained that the goal is to improve tactical proficiency and interoperability between the countries' navies to ensure they are prepared for any potential crisis.
The arrival of the USS Theodore Roosevelt strike group is seen as a strong display of solidarity and preparedness by the allies. South Korea's navy released a statement saying that the carrier's visit demonstrates their strong defense posture and their determination to respond to any threats from North Korea. This is not the first time a US aircraft carrier has visited South Korea, as the USS Carl Vinson made a similar show of strength just seven months ago.
In April, the Roosevelt strike group also participated in a joint exercise with South Korean and Japanese naval forces in the disputed East China Sea. This area has been a source of concern due to China's territorial claims, and the joint exercise was intended to send a message to the region.
In the face of increasing threats from North Korea, the United States, South Korea, and Japan have been working together to improve their combined training and increase the visibility of strategic US military assets in the region. This is all part of a broader effort to deter North Korea and show them that the allies are prepared to respond to any aggression. Additionally, the United States and South Korea have been updating their nuclear deterrence strategies, with South Korea seeking reassurance that the US would use its nuclear capabilities to protect them in the event of a North Korean nuclear attack.
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