Former US President Donald Trump is ready to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un once again. Answering the questions of journalists in the Air Force One plane, he said, ‘I am 100 percent ready. We both have a good understanding and if I get a chance, I am ready to meet him. The question is, why is he doing this suddenly, when only a few years ago this relationship had almost cooled down? Is this new ‘diplomatic warmth’ just a peace initiative or also a gesture of showing strength to Russia and China? Trump has already met Kim Jong-un thrice during his tenure: first in Singapore in 2018, second in Vietnam (2019) and third in DMG (on the Korean border).
Trump likes to portray himself as a ‘dealmaker’ and ‘non-traditional leader’. Meeting Kim could be an opportunity for him to once again show the same ‘courageous diplomacy’ that made headlines in 2018. Politically too, this move gives him the image of a ‘peacemaker’ on the domestic front, even if there are no concrete results.
South Korean government wants talks
Pressure from South Korea and demand for regional stability could be another reason. The current government of South Korea wants at least dialogue to be restored between North and South. By supporting this initiative, America wants to signal to its ally that it is committed to stability in Asia.
Russia could also be the reason
Another important reason could be the increasing closeness between Russia and North Korea. A comprehensive strategic partnership agreement was signed between North Korea and Russia in 2024, which includes defense and technological cooperation. Due to this, Washington is worried that Pyongyang may become a part of Russia’s military interests. Trump’s ‘readiness to meet’ could also be an attempt to signal to Russia that America still has influence in the region and is not out of the diplomatic game.
The reason for this meeting is to give the right message to China. China is the biggest supporter of North Korea. If America opens the way for direct dialogue, it can also show Beijing that Washington does not need the mediation of any third country.
Trump’s strategic move
Tension between America and Russia is at its peak amid the Russia-Ukraine war. America has also imposed sanctions on Russian oil companies. In such a situation, if Trump (who is considered to be in favor of dialogue with Russia) talks about re-engaging with North Korea, then it is like sending a ‘double signal’. On one hand, America will maintain its hold in Asia and on the other hand, efforts will be made to balance the closeness of Russia and North Korea.
Trump’s stance of ‘reuniting old relations’ not only shows his desire for peace, but it can also be a strategic move. This could be an attempt by Trump to weaken the Russia-North Korea friendship and an opportunity to shine the image of a ‘deal maker’ in domestic politics.
