"We strongly condemn the hostile act of the United States resorting to a reckless show of military force with its allies, which is inconsistent with the current political and military tensions on the Korean Peninsula, which is on the verge of an explosion, and is a clear threat and a serious provocation to the security of the region," the ministry said.

The article cited Australia's recent participation in US-South Korea air force exercises, joint US-Japan exercises and the deployment of a US nuclear aircraft carrier to the region.

Specifically, the statement said: “The US has staged a large-scale joint air exercise 'Freedom Flag' from the 21st with... South Korea by inviting the Australian Air Force to the Korean Peninsula, a 'joint air transport exercise' and a 'joint river crossing exercise' with South Korea, and a large-scale joint marine exercise 'Keen Sword' with Japan.”

“At the same time, they moved the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington to the area around the Korean Peninsula, further escalating military tensions,” the statement added.

South Korea and the United States are conducting Freedom Flag air exercises involving about 110 aircraft, including low-profile F-35 fighter jets.

The training began on October 21 and will continue until November 1. South Korea will use F-35A, F-15K fighters, the US side - F-35B and F-16, as well as MQ-9 drones.

Bui Huy (according to KCNA, Reuters)