Overview

• President Donald Trump has emphasized his personal rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, suggesting a possible revival of diplomatic talks.
• Experts argue that North Korea's nuclear weapons program is central to its regime survival, making complete denuclearization unlikely.
• China and Russia are seen as prioritizing regional stability over denuclearization, complicating U.S. efforts to pressure Pyongyang.
• Analysts suggest that freezing North Korea's nuclear program and pursuing arms control may be more achievable goals than full disarmament.
• Regional allies like South Korea and Japan express concerns over potential U.S.-North Korea agreements that might exclude their interests.