Japan, South Korea, and US Conduct Strategic Naval Drills in East Asia

The trilateral exercise underscores a commitment to regional security as leadership transitions in the US and Japan loom.

The Freedom Edge exercise involves advanced air and naval units from Japan, South Korea, and the US, highlighting trilateral military cooperation.
President Biden's initiative to strengthen ties between the three nations faces uncertainty as Donald Trump prepares to assume office.
Military leaders stress the importance of these drills in countering threats from North Korea, which has recently tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile.
The exercises are part of a broader strategy to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, amidst growing tensions with China and Russia.
Officials from the three countries express concern over the increasing military collaboration between Russia and North Korea, particularly in Ukraine.