North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signaled openness to renewed dialogue with the United States, saying he would consider talks if Washington abandoned its demand for denuclearisation. However, he firmly rejected the idea of ever giving up his nuclear arsenal, calling it vital for his country’s survival.
Speaking at the Supreme People’s Assembly on Sunday, Kim said: “If the United States drops its absurd obsession with denuclearising us and accepts reality, there is no reason not to sit down for talks.” He added that while he still holds “fond memories” of former US President Donald Trump, North Korea would not disarm under any circumstances.
Kim’s remarks coincided with South Korea’s new liberal government urging Trump to take the lead in reopening dialogue, six years after peace talks broke down over sanctions and nuclear demands. President Lee Jae Myung argued that even a freeze on North Korea’s nuclear production could be a step toward future reductions.
But Kim dismissed phased approaches as deceptive, accusing Washington and Seoul of hiding their intent to weaken and topple his regime. He also branded South Korea as North Korea’s “main enemy” and rejected any possibility of talks with Seoul.
North Korea, under UN sanctions since 2006, continues to expand its nuclear program, which experts say now produces 15 to 20 bombs a year. Kim claimed sanctions had only made the nation “stronger and more resilient,” while South Korea’s president insisted sanctions and pressure had failed to reduce the threat.
Analysts say Kim’s warm reference to Trump marks a strategic opening an invitation to bypass Seoul and deal directly with Washington. But whether the US shifts its policy on denuclearisation remains uncertain.
