The North Korean Defense Minister issued a warning that the North Korean military would take self-defense measures if “boundaries are crossed” during the upcoming joint military drills between Seoul and Washington next week.

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No Kwang-chol, the head of the ministry, denounced the Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercises, scheduled for August 18-28, as a “blatant military provocation” and a “real threat” to the region. He emphasized that safeguarding North Korea’s security from perceived U.S. and South Korean hostilities is the military’s top priority.

“Any crossing of lines by their adversaries will be met with the strict exercise of the sovereign right to self-defense,” said No.

He also criticized the drills, claiming they simulate a nuclear war scenario that heightens the instability and unpredictability of the region. According to him, the growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula are primarily fueled by “unilateral military threats” and confrontational actions from Washington and Seoul.

This year, the UFS exercise has been partially modified, with about 20 of the 40 initially planned drills postponed until next month.

Although military officials have said the adjustment was made due to the current heatwave and flood damage, some interpret the decision as an attempt by Seoul to improve relations with North Korea.

South Korean Unification Minister Chung Dong-young suggested in late July that President Lee Jae-myung might propose adjustments to the drills as part of a broader effort to foster inter-Korean reconciliation. Key decisions on this issue are expected at the upcoming summit between Lee and U.S. President Donald Trump, which is reportedly scheduled for August 25, though no official date has been confirmed.

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