Is Complete Denuclearisation of North Korea Still a Goal for the US?
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Synopsis
In a recent meeting, the US envoy reiterated the commitment to the complete denuclearisation of North Korea, despite its omission in the latest US security strategy. This article explores the implications of the recent developments and the ongoing discussions between the US and South Korea.
Key Takeaways
- US envoy confirms commitment to North Korea's complete denuclearisation.
- Recent US security strategy omits North Korea.
- Importance of joint military exercises highlighted by South Korean officials.
- Discussions ongoing regarding nuclear energy agreements.
- Joint fact sheet outlines trade and security commitments.
Seoul, Dec 8 (NationPress) A US envoy reiterated on Monday that the goal of 'complete denuclearisation' for North Korea continues to be a shared policy with South Korea, despite the absence of this phrase in a new US security strategy document.
Acting US Ambassador to South Korea, Kevin Kim, made this statement after his meeting with First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo, shortly after the Trump administration unveiled its latest National Security Strategy (NSS).
The recent document notably lacks any mention of North Korea and does not reaffirm the US commitment to its denuclearization, a departure from the 2017 and 2022 versions, which raises concerns that North Korea may be sidelined in ongoing discussions.
“President Trump and President Lee (Jae Myung) emphasized their dedication to the complete denuclearization of North Korea in the joint fact sheet,” Kim informed reporters when questioned about the NSS, referring to the recent joint summit document released by the two allies.
“This remains our policy regarding Korea,” he affirmed.
Kim highlighted that North Korea was among the topics discussed with Park, including strategies to “best coordinate” on related matters.
Additionally, Kim pointed out that Seoul reiterated the importance of coordination regarding joint military exercises, hinting at rising calls in South Korea to modify these drills with the US as a strategy to engage Pyongyang in dialogue.
“(Defence) Minister Ahn previously stressed the vital nature of coordinating joint military exercises, stating that these are akin to a military's lifeline. We hope to maintain this expectation moving forward,” he expressed.
When asked about the possibility of revising the nuclear energy agreement to permit South Korea to enrich uranium and reprocess spent fuel, the envoy mentioned that the two nations are “still in discussions.”
“We will do our utmost to implement the joint fact sheet,” Kim stated.
The joint fact sheet outlines commitments regarding trade, investment, security, and other matters established during the recent summits between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump in August and October, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
In this document, the US endorses processes leading to South Korea's civil uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing for peaceful purposes, consistent with their existing bilateral nuclear energy agreement and subject to US legal requirements.
During the recent high-level discussions in Washington, both Seoul and Washington agreed to form working groups for follow-up discussions regarding the joint fact sheet.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the significance of the US's commitment to North Korea's complete denuclearisation amidst shifting political strategies. This stance is crucial for regional security and exemplifies the ongoing alliance between the US and South Korea, which must be maintained to navigate the complexities of North Korean diplomacy.
NationPress
11/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest US security strategy regarding North Korea?
The latest US security strategy does not mention North Korea or reaffirm its commitment to its denuclearization, which raises concerns about prioritization.
What did Kevin Kim say about North Korea's denuclearization?
Kevin Kim reaffirmed that the complete denuclearisation of North Korea remains a shared policy with South Korea.
What are the implications of the joint fact sheet?
The joint fact sheet outlines commitments on various issues, including trade and security, and indicates ongoing cooperation between the US and South Korea.
