Trump-Kim Relations Revisited
Kim Jong Un Signals Openness to US Talks, But Rules Out Denuclearization
Kim Jong Un signals willingness for US talks but firmly rejects denuclearization demands, while South Korea's president pushes for pragmatic diplomatic approach despite tensions.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed a willingness to resume dialogue with the United States, but only on his own terms. In a wide-ranging speech to the Supreme People’s Assembly, Kim stated that he holds “good personal memories” of his past meetings with President Donald Trump. However, he made it clear that any future talks would not be conditioned on his country's denuclearization.
"If the United States discards its delusional obsession with denuclearisation and, based on recognising reality, truly wishes for peaceful coexistence with us, then there is no reason we cannot meet it," Kim said, according to the official Korean Central News Agency.
He stated that his country would never abandon its nuclear arsenal, which he considers essential for the survival of his regime.
The comments come at a time when South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is urging President Trump to take the lead in reopening dialogue. Kim, however, signaled a rejection of South Korea's role in future talks, criticizing Seoul and stating that he has "no reason to sit down with South Korea."
Despite this, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has continued to push for a more pragmatic approach. In a recent interview, Lee noted that while formidable obstacles remain, he believes a phased approach focused on first freezing North Korea's nuclear production is the most realistic option. Lee acknowledged that sanctions have failed to deter Pyongyang, which is adding an estimated 15 to 20 nuclear weapons to its arsenal every year.
The timing of Kim’s remarks is seen by some analysts as a calculated move ahead of President Trump's planned trip to South Korea next month for a major summit.