Overview

• In a speech to North Korea’s legislature, Kim said he would consider talks if the United States abandons its push for complete denuclearization.
• He declared North Korea will never relinquish its nuclear arsenal, calling it essential for the country’s survival and dismissing the impact of sanctions.
• Kim said he has good memories of President Trump and could envision another meeting, while Trump recently said he hopes to meet Kim this year.
• Kim rejected South Korea’s stepwise denuclearization proposal, ruled out talks with Seoul, and said reunification will not happen.
• China and Russia have recently signaled softer positions on Pyongyang’s program as reports describe North Korean support for Russia’s war effort, strengthening Kim’s leverage.