US President Donald Trump has played down concerns over North Korea’s growing nuclear arsenal, while again highlighting his personal relationship with leader Kim Jong Un.
Speaking at the White House, Trump acknowledged that North Korea has a “pretty large” nuclear capacity, although he said it is far smaller than that of the United States. He also blamed previous US administrations for allowing Pyongyang to develop its weapons program.
Trump then focused on his relationship with Kim, calling the North Korean leader a friend and saying Kim respects and likes him. Trump added that Kim would be “fine” as long as he remains in power.
The comments come as Trump signals interest in renewed direct diplomacy with Kim. The two leaders met three times during Trump’s first term, but their negotiations ended without an agreement to curb North Korea’s nuclear program.
Trump has said he expects to meet Kim again later this year, with speculation surrounding a possible meeting during his upcoming Asia trip for the APEC summit in China.
For now, Washington’s approach remains focused on dealing with North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities, as Trump leaves the door open for another round of personal diplomacy with Kim Jong Un.
