Overview

• In a speech to the Supreme People's Assembly reported by KCNA, Kim said Pyongyang could meet Washington if the U.S. abandons its precondition that the North disarm.
• Kim said he has “fond memories” of President Donald Trump, and regional media noted speculation about a potential encounter during Trump’s planned visit to South Korea next month.
• He reiterated there will “never” be denuclearization, saying nuclear arms are enshrined as irreversible and not tradable for sanctions relief.
• Kim dismissed South Korea’s three-stage plan as a retread, declared he would not talk to Seoul or pursue unification, and warned of catastrophic retaliation if deterrence is challenged.
• He touted defense advances, citing new naval destroyers and unspecified “secret weapons,” and claimed sanctions have strengthened North Korea’s endurance.