This periodic e-newsletter will provide readers with updates and analyses on diplomatic and denuclearization efforts on the Korean peninsula. To receive these by email, subscribe to our regular updates list.
Working-level talks between the U.S. and North Korea hit a roadblock this month after negotiators failed to agree on steps toward a denuclearization and peace process. The Trump Administration appears optimistic about future bilateral negotiations despite Pyongyang’s recent missile provocations and warning of a resumption of long-range ballistic missile tests.
U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met at the DMZ June 30, as President Moon Jae-in of South Korea calls on the U.S. and North Korea to advance denuclearization negotiations, and China's President Xi Jinping visits Pyongyang.
The next steps for U.S. diplomacy with North Korea remain unclear after Pyongyang tested several short-range ballistic missiles in early May. U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun met with South Korean officials in Seoul May 9-10 amid criticisms from North Korea of the U.S. negotiating team and U.S. seizure of a North Korean ship.
North Korea tests a new tactical weapon and continues to engage in sophisticated methods of sanctions evasion, according to the most recent reports. As both Washington and Pyongyang say changes must precede any third summit between the two countries, a meeting between Putin and Kim is expected by the end of this month.
As the second U.S.-North Korea summit ended abruptly, South Korea pushes for trilateral talks and the UN Security Council issues waivers for humanitarian aid to North Korea.