On Friday, June 27, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he would “solve the conflict with North Korea.” Speaking at an Oval Office event focused on his role in addressing global disputes, Trump was asked whether he had recently sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, as some reports had suggested. Trump did not confirm or deny the letter but emphasized his positive relationship with Kim, saying, “I’ve always had a good relationship with Kim Jong Un. We get along really well. So let’s see what happens.” He added, “If there’s any potential conflict, I think we’ll work it out. And if there is one, I don’t think it would involve us.”

Earlier in June, NK News, a Seoul-based outlet that tracks developments in North Korea, reported that Pyongyang’s UN delegation repeatedly rejected a letter from Trump addressed to Kim. During Trump’s first term (2017–2021), he and Kim held three summits and exchanged several personal letters, which Trump often described as “beautiful.” However, talks ultimately collapsed over U.S. demands that North Korea dismantle its nuclear arsenal.

In his second term, Trump acknowledged North Korea’s status as a “nuclear power.” While the White House confirmed on June 11 that Trump remains open to renewed communication with Kim, it did not confirm the existence of any new correspondence. Since diplomatic efforts broke down in 2019, North Korea has not expressed interest in returning to talks and has instead ramped up its nuclear and missile programs. Additionally, the country has developed closer ties with Russia, reportedly providing both troops and weapons to support Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.