President Donald Trump made a remark during his flight to Asia that has turned many heads. When asked if he accepts North Korea calling itself a nuclear state, Trump said, “They are sort of a nuclear power. They got a lot of nuclear weapons.”
This short line has now opened a new chapter in the long story of U.S. and North Korea relations. As Trump begins his Asia tour, questions grow about a possible new meeting with Kim Jong Un.
Key Takeaways
- Trump said North Korea is “sort of a nuclear power”
- Talks of a possible meeting between Trump and Kim are rising again
- Joint Security Area in the DMZ closed for several days, adding to the speculation
- North Korea has improved areas near the border which signals preparation
- Last Trump Kim meet was in 2019, after that talks stopped
A Trip With Big Expectations
Trump will be in South Korea soon for the APEC Forum. He will also meet leaders of China, Japan, and Malaysia. The North Korea question is again at the center of attention.
Many believe Trump and Kim could meet before this year ends because both sides have sent positive signals. Trump has also said that he wants to meet Kim again.
Some officials say such a meeting is not confirmed right now. But others in South Korea say the chances are high.
The closure of tours at the Joint Security Area, which happened last time before Trump met Kim in 2019, has increased the rumors again.
Changes Near the Border
Reports show workers in North Korea cleaning areas around the JSA. They removed weeds, cleaned spaces, and took photos.
This is the first major cleanup this year which shows something important may be coming. Kim Jong Un recently said he has good memories with Trump and is open to talks if the U.S. changes its approach on nuclear demands.
On social media, Trump’s comments have created a wave of reactions. Many are debating if Trump’s move is smart diplomacy or a big risk.
A Look Back at Trump Kim Relations
Here is a short timeline that shows how things moved over the years:
| Year | Big Moment | What Happened Next |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Singapore Summit | Talks began with big promises |
| 2019 | Hanoi & DMZ Meets | No nuclear deal and talks froze |
| 2020 to 2024 | Stalemate | North Korea increased nuclear tests |
| 2025 | “Sort of” Nuclear Power | New hope for fresh meeting |
North Korea has now grown stronger. They built hypersonic missiles and ICBMs that can reach the United States. North Korea says its nuclear force is irreversible.
What It Means for the World
North Korea’s weapons keep Asia on alert. South Korea and Japan think different missile tests can happen anytime. If Trump and Kim talk again and build trust, it may help in lowering tensions, reducing sanctions, and improving Asian markets.
But North Korea today has support from both Russia and China. That gives Kim more power in the talks.
The U.S., Japan, and South Korea still see North Korea as one of the biggest threats in the region. Any move that accepts North Korea as a nuclear country could make denuclearization much harder.
Trump believes his past friendship with Kim can reopen the door. But the path ahead is still unsure.
