Kim Jong Un’s Sister Asserts North Korea’s Status as Nuclear Power
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Kim Jong Un’s younger sister, an influential figure in North Korea, asserts that the U.S. must recognize her nation’s "irreversible" status as a nuclear weapons state. She stated that any dialogue aiming for denuclearisation would be seen as a "mockery" and that attempts to deny North Korea's nuclear status will be rejected decisively.
Kim Yo Jong emphasized that the geopolitical landscape and North Korea's capabilities have "radically changed" and should be recognized. She called for a new approach from the U.S. that acknowledges these permanent shifts.
"The DPRK is open to any option in defending its present national position," she stated, emphasizing that a confrontation between the U.S. and North Korea is not beneficial and that a different method for communication should be sought.
She also mentioned that while the relationship between Kim Jong Un and former U.S. President Donald Trump was not "bad," using their personal rapport to push for denuclearisation would be mocked.
Kim's statement casts doubt on the potential for renegotiating denuclearisation, a goal that had previously been articulated by Trump. The White House had indicated openness to resuming talks with Kim Jong Un, yet Kim's sister rejected the notion of renewing such discussions on their previous terms.
Jenny Town, a North Korea expert, noted that Kim Yo Jong’s stance is in line with Pyongyang's recent messaging. She explained that while future diplomacy is not out of the question, the framework and objectives for negotiation have significantly shifted since 2019, considering advancements in North Korea's weapons programs as well as changes in the nation's policies and global politics.
"If negotiations are possible, the terms of engagement have fundamentally changed," Town remarked. "The conversation won't be about denuclearisation, but perhaps talks could occur under a different premise. However, whether the U.S. is ready to adjust its approach remains unclear."
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