US President Donald Trump said Monday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un responded to his efforts.
Trump made the remarks one day after ordering reduced military exercises with South Korea. He also described North Korea as “unthreatening and respectful.”
Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in reviving direct diplomacy with Kim. Their relationship received significant attention during Trump’s first presidential term.
Asked why Kim had not responded to his outreach, Trump replied, “he has.” However, he provided no further details about the communication.
Trump Orders Reduction In South Korea Drills
On Sunday, Trump instructed the Pentagon to substantially reduce joint military exercises with South Korea. He cited the drills’ costs and Seoul’s refusal to support actions against Iran.
North Korea has consistently condemned the exercises as preparations for a potential war. The planned reduction could therefore influence tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Meanwhile, White House officials and North Korea’s United Nations mission offered no immediate comment. Both sides have yet to provide details about Trump’s reported outreach.
Trump And Kim Previously Held Two Summits
Trump and Kim developed a highly publicized relationship during Trump’s first term. The two leaders held summits in 2018 and 2019.
However, negotiations eventually collapsed over North Korea’s nuclear weapons program. Pyongyang remains under extensive international sanctions over its nuclear arsenal and ballistic missiles.
Trump has since shown renewed interest in communicating directly with Kim. His latest comments suggest that contact may have resumed between Washington and Pyongyang.
Nevertheless, neither government has confirmed the nature or timing of Kim’s response. Further details could clarify whether the outreach may lead to renewed diplomacy.
For now, Trump’s statement provides limited information about the reported communication. Both governments have yet to announce any formal diplomatic engagement.
