Overview

• North Korean state media quoted Kim Jong-un saying he would sit down with the United States only if it accepts Pyongyang’s nuclear status and abandons denuclearization demands.
• Kim reiterated that North Korea will never give up its nuclear weapons and argued that sanctions have hardened the country’s endurance and resistance.
• He said he has good personal memories of President Donald Trump, who has shown willingness since returning to office to reengage with Pyongyang.
• Kim ruled out negotiations with South Korea, rejecting talks despite President Lee Jae-myung’s efforts to ease tensions.
• The remarks come as Pyongyang tightens alignment with Russia and China, with reports of North Korean troops sent to Ukraine and a 2024 mutual defense pact with Moscow, and as Trump plans a visit to South Korea for an APEC summit.