Current Affairs - International - Discussion

The Freedom Edge military exercise, conducted from September 15–19, 2025, was held near Jeju Island, South Korea. This trilateral exercise involved the United States, South Korea, and Japan, focusing on missile defence, air and naval operations, cyber coordination, and medical evacuation drills. It represents the most advanced trilateral drill to date and highlights growing defence cooperation between the three allies in response to North Korea’s nuclear and missile advancements. While the exercise emphasised deterrence, Pyongyang condemned it as a provocation, warning of consequences. The event also aligns with commitments made at the Camp David summit to strengthen trilateral security.