Feb 26 β€’ 06:12 UTC πŸ‡°πŸ‡· Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

On the day of Kim Jong-un's speech release... US 'ready to talk with North Korea, Cuba, and Iran'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with representatives from North Korea, Cuba, and Iran, coinciding with Kim Jong-un's recent remarks on potential US-North Korea relations.

On the 25th, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States is open to dialogue with any government officials willing to share perspectives or information. During a press conference in St. Kitts and Nevis at the CARICOM summit, he mentioned that this openness includes representatives from Cuba, North Korea, and Iran, although he later clarified that this should not be equated with negotiations. The context of his comments aligns interestingly with the speech by Kim Jong-un, which was released on the same day, suggesting that recognition of North Korea’s nuclear status could lead to improved relations with the US.

In this speech, Kim stressed that if the US revises its hostile policy towards North Korea and acknowledges its nuclear capabilities, there could be potential for a more amicable relationship. This statement echoes sentiments noted during Donald Trump's presidency when he occasionally referred to North Korea as a 'nuclear power', hinting at a possible shift in American policy towards Pyongyang. The timing of these statements raises questions about the future of US-North Korea communications, especially with Trump’s upcoming trip to China in late March or early April which could facilitate direct or indirect discussions between the two nations.

Despite these developments, South Korean diplomatic sources have noted that there have been no observable movements regarding specific US-North Korea contact from the National Security Council or the State Department. This suggests a cautious approach from the US even as dialogue opportunities seem to be opening up beyond direct negotiations. As discussions around these geopolitical dynamics unfold, the impact on regional stability and international relations will remain critical.

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