Trump expects Kim Jong Un meeting, says North Korea has 57 nukes

U.S. President Donald Trump indicated he anticipates meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un within the year, while also stating that North Korea already possesses 57 nuclear weapons. Trump, however, sidestepped questions about whether the goal of resuming dialogue is North Korea's denuclearization, a move interpreted as an effort to maintain momentum in talks, possibly acknowledging North Korea's desire to be recognized as a nuclear state.

Responding to reporters at the White House, Trump confirmed his expectation of a meeting with Kim this year. When asked about exchanging letters, he replied, "I can't say," but added, "I'm getting along very well with him. It's good that I get along with him, not bad."

Pressed on whether denuclearization remains the objective for restarting relations, Trump stated, "I don't want to talk about that." He then elaborated on North Korea's arsenal: "He has 57 very powerful nuclear weapons. It shouldn't have happened in the first place, but he has them, and I get along with him very well." Trump further commented on his relationship with Kim, suggesting Kim dislikes Biden and Obama but likes him, and that they "had great meetings."

Trump asserted that countries like Japan and South Korea feel safer under his presidency than under previous U.S. leaders. Regarding scaled-back joint U.S.-South Korea military drills, he expressed displeasure, stating, "I don't like the fact that we're having large-scale military drills against North Korea when we have a friendly relationship with him." He added that it would be "very insulting" to someone like Kim, who has "behaved well" during his term. Trump concluded, "I get along with him, and I don't see anything happening for at least the next two and a half years that I'm president."

Separately, Trump reiterated his dissatisfaction with South Korea's refusal to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz. He recounted asking South Korea for help, only to be told, "No, thank you." Trump stated he was "not happy" when South Korea indicated it was not interested in helping. Earlier, he had revealed that he asked President Lee Jae-myung to join U.S. efforts for Iran's denuclearization, but South Korea responded with "No thanks!". President Lee later stated via X that South Korea has consistently expressed its willingness to participate in international efforts to ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz and will continue close communication with the U.S. on practical contributions within its legal and policy framework.