North Korea Signals Dialogue if US Drops Denuclearization Demand

North Korea, through Kim Yo Jong, has indicated a conditional openness to restarting talks with the United States, contingent on Washington dropping its demand for North Korea's denuclearization and instead recognizing its nuclear weapons status. Kim Yo Jong dismissed the U.S. intent to resume diplomacy focused on denuclearization as outdated and unacceptable, emphasizing that any denial of North Korea's status as a nuclear state would be rejected. She acknowledged the personal relationship between Kim Jong Un and President Trump but warned that it would be seen as mockery if used to push for denuclearization. President Trump remains open to engaging with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to achieve a fully denuclearized North Korea, despite Pyongyang's rejection of this premise. The White House continues to advocate for ending North Korea's nuclear program, viewing nuclear armament as a threat to regional stability. Observers note that North Korea's stance reflects a hardened position compared to previous diplomatic efforts during Trump's earlier term.