The carrier strike group is set to participate in a new multi-domain, three-nation exercise later this summer.
The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt and her strike group have arrived in South Korea for joint naval exercises following a new mutual defense pact between Russia and North Korea.
The carrier strike group will take part in a new multi-domain, trilateral exercise involving Japan later this summer. The exercise, known as Freedom Edge, was announced by the defense chiefs of the three nations in early June during a regional security conference held in Singapore.
This visit marks the first time the USS Theodore Roosevelt has visited South Korea, arriving approximately seven months after the USS Carl Vinson was docked in Busan last November.
The recent visit serves to showcase the robust defense alliance between the U.S. and South Korea in response to escalating threats from North Korea, as stated by the South Korean Navy.
The port call occurred following Seoul’s summoning of the Russian ambassador to express concerns over the mutual defense treaty signed between Russia and North Korea, elevating their relationship to a “comprehensive strategic partnership.”
The treaty stipulates that in the event of an invasion, each country will provide immediate military and other forms of assistance to the other, as outlined in the treaty text published by North Korean state media.
The agreement was finalized on June 19 during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang, where he was welcomed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at an elaborate ceremony.
Speculations suggest that the strengthening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang involve exchanges of military technology to advance North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and enhance its military capabilities.
The growing alliance between Russia and North Korea has raised concerns among U.S. and East Asian allies, who have accused North Korea of supplying missiles and artillery shells to Russia for use in Ukraine.
In response to these allegations, the White House reported missile launches from North Korea into Ukraine via Russia, with the U.S. Department of State highlighting the delivery of munitions from North Korea to Russia since September 2023.
During a Senate hearing, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized the role of North Korea, Iran, and China in supporting Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine.
Both Russian and North Korean officials have denied any involvement in arms transfers as alleged by the United States.
Please rephrase.
Source link
