South Korea and USA start large joint military maneuvers

South Korea and the United States started their largest joint military exercise in five years today, Monday. According to Seoul and Washington, the multi-day "Freedom Shield" maneuver is a reaction to the "changed security environment" in the region due to increased aggression by North Korea. A few hours before the planned start of the military maneuvers, North Korea said it was testing two strategic cruise missiles. Pyongyang had warned in advance that the maneuvers could be interpreted as a declaration of war. North Korea regards such military exercises as a test run for an invasion. Late last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un declared his country a nuclear power and launched an unprecedented number of missiles. Last week he ordered the military to step up drills in preparation for real war. Washington has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to defend South Korea with all its military capabilities, including nuclear capabilities. Both countries have increased their defense cooperation.