Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday his intention to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un later this year, revealing for the first time that Pyongyang possesses 57 nuclear weapons. This revelation marks a significant disclosure about North Korea's military capabilities, as Trump shared these details during a press availability at the White House.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the announcement follows a report by The Wall Street Journal indicating Trump's eagerness for a meeting with Kim, potentially during his upcoming visit to Asia for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, in November. When asked by reporters if a meeting with Kim was anticipated this year, Trump confirmed without elaborating on plans for reengagement.
During a later interaction with the press, Trump sidestepped questions regarding his objective of North Korea's denuclearization, which has raised concerns about a potential policy shift toward tension reduction instead of complete denuclearization. Despite previously committing to the full denuclearization of North Korea, Trump emphasized his personal rapport with Kim, highlighting their past meetings in Singapore, Hanoi, and Panmunjom.
Speculation about Trump's diplomatic overtures is fueled by his recent order to reduce South Korea-U.S. military exercises, perceived as a gesture towards North Korea. These developments come as Trump seeks to bolster his foreign policy credentials amidst ongoing tensions in Iran, affecting global energy prices, particularly ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.
The response from North Korea remains uncertain, especially given its strengthening ties with Russia and China, which could lessen its reliance on U.S. negotiations. However, Kim Yo-jong, Kim Jong-un's sister, acknowledged the good personal relationship between Trump and Kim, suggesting potential for dialogue continuation.
In his statements, Trump disclosed North Korea's possession of 57 nuclear weapons, critiquing previous administrations for allowing such an arsenal to develop. While experts suggest North Korea could have approximately 60 nuclear weapons, Trump's specific figure marks a first in publicly addressing the regime's nuclear inventory.
Trump also voiced dissatisfaction with South Korea's stance on military cooperation, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, citing their reliance on oil shipments through the strait without contributing to its security.
As Trump prepares for the potential meeting with Kim, the international community watches closely how these developments will influence regional stability and the future of U.S.-North Korea relations.