Donald Trump assures he is making the situation 'safer' with North Korea

U.S. President Donald Trump asserted on Monday that his personal relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is contributing to a safer geopolitical situation. Trump's comments came shortly after he announced a decision to scale back military exercises with South Korea, framing this move as a positive development.

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I am making it safer.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump emphasized the mutual respect he believes exists between himself and Kim Jong-un. "Kim Jong-un has always treated me with great respect," Trump stated, adding, "I understand him. He understands me."

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Kim Jong-un has always treated me with great respect.

When questioned about North Korea's response to the reduced military drills with South Korea, Trump indicated a favorable reaction. "Yes, he did," Trump replied when asked if the North Korean leader had responded positively. While he described the situation as "very positive," he remained vague about whether the two leaders had engaged in direct conversation.

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I understand him. He understands me.

Trump also took the opportunity to criticize South Korea, a long-standing U.S. ally. He expressed dissatisfaction with what he perceives as a lack of support from South Korea regarding the conflict with Iran and suggested the ally relies too heavily on the U.S. for its defense.

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Yes, he did.