North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said he is open to talks with the U.S. if Washington abandons its demand for denuclearization. Kim reaffirmed that Pyongyang enshrined its nuclear status in its constitution and will never give up its weapons. While expressing fond memories of former meetings with Donald Trump, Kim signaled openness to summitry again. Trump, who hopes to meet Kim this year during his expected visit to South Korea, said progress could be achieved. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung voiced support for an interim deal to freeze North Korea’s nuclear production rather than eliminate it, but Kim ruled out any talks with Seoul. The U.S. government has reiterated that complete denuclearization remains its goal, while Japan called North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs “absolutely unacceptable.” Experts estimate Pyongyang possesses around 50 nuclear warheads with material for up to 40 more. Kim argued that sanctions have only strengthened North Korea and warned that Western powers cannot defeat them through pressure or force.
https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/22/asia-pacific/kim-trump-north-korea-denuclearization
