Trump Just Got Terrible News! US Can't Believe What Russia & N. Korea Just Did - What Will Kim Do?

Key Covered Topics
Russia’s War in Ukraine & Shifting Global Focus

Why the Trump administration’s attention on Moscow/Ukraine could alter the U.S.–North Korea dynamic.

Kim Jong Un’s show of force with cruise missile tests highlights that the DPRK issue remains unresolved.

Revived U.S.–North Korea Dialogue Prospects

Trump’s second presidency: continuity from the 2018–19 summits and re-assembling experienced negotiators.

The importance of personal rapport between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un.

Need for a “Reality Check” on Denuclearization

Kim’s unwavering stance: total disarmament vs. the regime’s survival logic.

Emerging consensus: partial constraints and arms-control measures more feasible than complete denuclearization.

Role of a Liberal Government in South Korea

President Yoon’s hawkish stance replaced by possible liberal leadership after impeachment.

How a pro-diplomacy Seoul could bolster U.S. engagement with Pyongyang.

Challenges of “Maximalist” Demands & Potential Arms Control Approach

Why the traditional U.S. approach (full denuclearization) repeatedly fails.

Possible first steps: capping warheads, limiting tactical nukes, freezing select DPRK nuclear capabilities.

Implications of a Russia–U.S. Thaw for North Korea

If Trump mends ties with Moscow for Ukraine, Kim risks losing Russian backing.

Diplomatic leverage for Washington: isolating Pyongyang further.

Unfinished Business: Trump’s Personal Stake in a ‘Proudest Legacy’

Trump’s self-proclaimed role as a dealmaker and peacemaker.