Overview

• South Korea and the United States launched the 11-day Ulchi Freedom Shield with 21,000 troops, combining computer-simulated command post work with field training and a four-day civil-defense drill.
• KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un inspected the new 5,000-ton destroyer Choe Hyon at Nampo, oversaw weapons tests and sailor training, accused the allies of preparing for war, and ordered an accelerated expansion of the nuclear arsenal.
• North Korea’s state media outlined a naval buildup, saying a sister destroyer capsized at launch in May before being relaunched in June as Kang Kon and reporting a third ship under construction with more planned by 2026.
• U.S. military officials said roughly half of 44 planned field training events through September have been postponed due to heat and flood damage, rejecting suggestions the adjustments were made to facilitate diplomacy.
• The exercises proceed as South Korean President Lee Jae-myung prepares for an Aug. 25 summit with President Trump that has renewed questions in Seoul about alliance costs and roles.