North Korea has expressed criticism towards the United States, South Korea, and Japan for engaging in joint military exercises that it perceives as reminiscent of an Asian NATO alliance, according to state media reports. The joint military drills involving the three countries were denounced by Pyongyang's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which stated that such demonstrations of military force against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea are provocative and strongly condemned. The Ministry further elaborated that the trilateral relations between the US, Japan, and South Korea now resemble an Asian NATO, cautioning about potential grave consequences if such military blocs are strengthened. The DPRK affirmed that it will closely monitor any efforts by the US and its allies to bolster military alliances. The recent large-scale military exercises dubbed "Freedom Edge" commenced on Thursday and saw the participation of the US, Japan, and South Korea. The drills involved navy destroyers, fighter jets, and the nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt, focusing on enhancing defenses against missile threats, submarines, and aerial attacks. This exercise was initiated following a summit at Camp David last year to enhance military cooperation amidst tensions on the Korean Peninsula arising from North Korea's weapons testing activities. North Korea has historically criticized joint military exercises between the US and South Korea, viewing them as rehearsals for potential invasions and exemplifications of hostile intentions by Washington and Seoul. In response to North Korea's accusations, South Korea clarified that the recent drills are routine defensive maneuvers conducted regularly among the three allied nations. Moreover, Seoul announced intentions to reconsider direct arms supplies to Ukraine in protest against a recent defense pact between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Allegations have surfaced accusing North Korea of providing weaponry to Russia for use in the Ukrainian conflict, claims that both countries have refuted.