The latest South Korea-U.S. joint military exercises increased tensions on the Korean Peninsula and dented efforts to restore stability, Rodong Sinmun of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) said Monday.

The leading DRPK newspaper was responding to the military exercises named "Key Resolution" and "Condor" that were to last from Feb. 28 to March 10.

A commentary carried by Rodong Sinmun said all provocations and military threats should be stopped, adding the ceaseless South Korea-U.S. military exercises are one of the most important causes of the deterioration of the situation on the peninsula.

If South Korea persists with its aggressive policy, it must take all responsibilities for any consequences, the commentary warned.

On Sunday, the Korean People's Army of the DPRK issued a statement, saying it would take resolute military measures to respond to the exercises.