Trump says N. Korea's Kim as responded to his overtures

On Monday, President Donald Trump stated that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had responded to his overtures following the US decision to reduce military exercises with South Korea. In an Oval Office press conference, Trump was questioned about Kim's lack of response to his overtures, but did not elaborate further. Their relationship was a prominent topic during Trump's first term, including numerous letters exchanged between the two leaders, but has been given less attention in the current administration.

The two leaders met for summits in 2018 and 2019, but negotiations were halted due to discrepancies over North Korea's nuclear weapons stockpile. North Korea remains subject to stringent international sanctions for its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. According to Trump, Kim has always shown him respect and they have met multiple times, both in person and via correspondence.

Trump recently directed the Pentagon to significantly decrease joint military drills with longtime Asian partner South Korea, citing financial constraints.