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North Korea

KCNA

June 10, 20181

“The historic first summit meeting and talks between Kim Jong Un, the respected Supreme Leader of the party, the state and the army of the DPRK, and Donald J. Trump, president of the United States of America, are to be held on the morning of June 12.”

“Wide-ranging and profound views on the issue of establishing new DPRK-U.S. relations, the issue of building a permanent and durable peace-keeping mechanism on the Korean Peninsula, the issue of realizing the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula and other issues of mutual concern, as required by the changed era, will be exchanged at the DPRK-U.S. summit talks to be held for the first time in history under the great attention and expectation of the whole world.”

KCNA

June 1, 20182 

“The north-south high-level talks were held at the "House of Peace" in the south side portion of Panmunjom on Friday to implement the historic Panmunjom Declaration.” 

“At the talks both sides confirmed the principled stand for the implementation of the Panmunjom Declaration, sincerely discussed problems for taking practical measures and adopted a joint press release.” 

“The joint press release says that a north-south joint liaison office shall be set up at the Kaesong Industrial Zone, and ways for significantly commemorating the 18th anniversary of the publication of the June 15 Joint Declaration be found and discussed by way of exchanging documents.”

 Kim Jong-un

May 31, 20183 

On May 31, 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Pyongyang. According to KCNA, 

“Kim Jong Un said that the DPRK's will for denuclearization of the Korean peninsula still remains unchanged and consistent and fixed and he hoped that the DPRK-U.S. relations and the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula will be solved on a stage-by-stage basis by finding a solution to meet the interests of each other through a new method in a new era and under a new situation and the solution of the issues will progress through effective and constructive dialogue and negotiation.”  

“Agreed at the conversation was to invigorate high-level visits, activate exchange and cooperation in different fields and, especially, realize the meeting between the top leaders of the DPRK and Russia this year marking the 70th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations so as to continue to develop the strategic and traditional relations between the two countries in the interests of both sides and in keeping with the requirement of a new era.” 

May 31, 20184 

"The situation on the Korean Peninsula is changing in accordance with the requirements of the interests of the two countries’ North and South Korea nations. I highly value the fact that Putin’s administration strictly opposes the US’ dominance.” 

"You strictly oppose, and we are always ready to conduct negotiations and a profound exchange of opinions with the Russian side on this issue."

"I think your visit shows how much attention the Russian leadership and President Putin pay to the further development and strengthening of our relations.”

"Your visit comes at a time when the situation on the Korean Peninsula is rapidly moving towards talks and consultations in accordance with the interests of the two countries’ people.”

Rodong Sinmun

May 28, 20185

"The DPRK (North Korea) is advancing along the path taken by itself according to its timetable no matter whatever others may say and wherever wind may blow from in order to implement the decision of the Third Plenary Meeting of the Seventh Central Committee of the WPK.”

"The whole course of dismantling the northern nuclear test ground eloquently proves the DPRK government's unshakable peace-loving stand to join the aspiration and efforts of the international community for a total stop to nuclear tests.”

"The DPRK's steadfast will to join hands with the world peace-loving people in building a nuclear-free, peaceful world, a new independent world where the dream and ideal of humankind have come true, will remain unchanged in the future.”

KCNA

May 27, 20186

"As impudent as to make rubbish that if the DPRK meets the requirements of the U.S., it can get 'large-scale non-governmental economic aid.'”

"This is nonsense of hack media on the payroll of power.”

"U.S. media is still building up public opinion that the DPRK comes to the negotiating table with the U.S. in a hope to get 'economic aid.”

"We can not but make the fact clear. It is the U.S. that asked for DPRK-U.S. talks first.”

"As far as the 'economic aid' ... is concerned, the DPRK has never expected it.”

KCNA

May 26, 20187

On May 26, 2018, South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un had their second Summit in the northern side of the Panmunjom truce village.

“Kim Jong Un and Moon Jae In shared the view that the two sides should trust and take care of each other and exert joint efforts to make sure that the Panmunjom Declaration reflecting the unanimous desire of all Koreans is implemented at an early date.”

“They agreed to hold the north-south high-level talks on coming June 1 and further accelerate the talks of various fields including the ones of military authorities and Red Cross.”

"They shared the opinion that they would meet frequently in the future to make dialogue brisk and pool wisdom and efforts, expressing their stand to make joint efforts for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula."

"Kim Jong-un thanked Moon Jae-in for much effort made by him for the DPRK-U.S. summit scheduled for June 12, and expressed his fixed will on the historic DPRK-U.S. summit talks.”

"Kim Jong-un told Moon Jae-in to positively cooperate with each other as ever to improve the DPRK-U.S. relations and establish mechanism for permanent and durable peace.”

“Kim Jong Un thanked Moon Jae In for much effort made by him for the DPRK-U.S. summit scheduled for June 12, and expressed his fixed will on the historic DPRK-U.S. summit talks.”

“Kim Jong Un asked Moon Jae In to positively cooperate with each other as ever to improve the DPRK-U.S. relations and establish mechanism for permanent and durable peace.”

“They reached a satisfactory consensus on the matters discussed at the talks.”

KCNA

May 25, 20188

"The dismantlement of the nuclear test ground is a vivid manifestation of the DPRK government's fixed peace-loving stand to join in the international aspiration and efforts for total halt to the nuclear test and make positive contribution to building a nuclear free world."

Kim Kye-gwan- First Vice Foreign Minister

May 25, 20189

“President of the United States of America Trump made public his official stand on May 24 to cancel the DPRK-U.S. summit that had already been made a fait accompli.”

“The inglorious situation today is a vivid expression of the severity of the present status of the hostile DPRK-U.S. relations of long historical roots and the urgent necessity for the summit meeting for the improvement of the ties.”

“As far as the historic DPRK-U.S. summit is concerned, we have inwardly highly appreciated President Trump for having made the bold decision, which any other U.S. presidents dared not, and made efforts for such a crucial event as the summit.”

“It is hard to guess the reasons. It could be that he lacked the will for the summit or he might not have felt confident. But for our part, we have exerted sincere efforts, raising hope that the historic DPRK-U.S. summit meeting and talks themselves would mark a meaningful starting point for peace and security in the region and the world and the improvement of the bilateral relations as the first step forward to settling the issue through dialogue.” 

“We even inwardly hoped that what is called "Trump formula" would help clear both sides of their worries and comply with the requirements of our side and would be a wise way of substantial effect for settling the issue.” 

“We remain unchanged in our goal and will to do everything we could for peace and stability of the Korean peninsula and humankind, and we, broad-minded and open all the time, have the willingness to offer the U.S. side time and opportunity.” 

“The first meeting would not solve all, but solving even one at a time in a phased way would make the relations get better rather than making them get worse. The U.S. should ponder over it.” 

“We would like to make known to the U.S. side once again that we have the intent to sit with the U.S. side to solve problem regardless of ways at any time.” 

KCNA

May 24, 201810 

"The Nuclear Weapons Institute of the DPRK held a ceremony for completely dismantling the northern nuclear test ground of the DPRK on May 24." 

Choe Son-hui- Vice Foreign Minister 

May 24, 201811 

“At an interview with Fox News on May 21, U.S. Vice-President Pence made unbridled and impudent remarks that north Korea might end like Libya, military option for north Korea never came off the table, the U.S. needs complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization, and so on.” 

“Soon after the White House National Security Adviser Bolton made the reckless remarks, Vice-President Pence has again spat out nonsense that the DPRK would follow in Libya's footstep. It is to be underlined, however, that in order not to follow in Libya's footstep, we paid a heavy price to build up our powerful and reliable strength that can defend ourselves and safeguard peace and security in the Korean peninsula and the region.” 

“It is the U.S. who has asked for dialogue, but now it is misleading the public opinion as if we have invited them to sit with us. I only wonder what is the ulterior motive behind its move and what is it the U.S. has calculated to gain from that.” 

“We will neither beg the U.S. for dialogue nor take the trouble to persuade them if they do not want to sit together with us.” 

“Whether the U.S. will meet us at a meeting room or encounter us at nuclear-to-nuclear showdown is entirely dependent upon the decision and behavior of the United States.” 

“In case the U.S. offends against our goodwill and clings to unlawful and outrageous acts, I will put forward a suggestion to our supreme leadership for reconsidering the DPRK-U.S. summit.” 

KCNA

May 21, 201812 

"All countries and nations should cultivate and bolster their own strength and resolve everything with recourse to it in order to achieve independent development and prosperity.” 

"Dependence on others is a very dangerous virus which makes a nation mean and weak and lets a country go to ruin. Now that the imperialists are getting more desperate in their moves to dominate other countries and nations and the world, if one tries to get benefit from outsiders while depending on them, instead of depending on his strength, it is as foolish an act as ruining oneself." 

"Though one faces socio-economic difficulties and harsher pressure by the imperialist and hegemonic forces, one should think to advance, firmly believing in his strength.” 

"Our revolution will courageously tide over any difficulties and more vigorously advance faster as there is the leadership of the party attaching most importance to science and education and taking positive measures for their development.” 

USA

Donald Trump- President 

June 10, 201813

 “I am on my way to Singapore where we have a chance to achieve a truly wonderful result for North Korea and the World. It will certainly be an exciting day and I know that Kim Jong-un will work very hard to do something that has rarely been done before... Create peace and great prosperity for his land. I look forward to meeting him and have a feeling that this one-time opportunity will not be wasted!”

 June 9, 201814

 “I’ll be leaving for Singapore. I’ll be on a mission of peace, and we will carry in, really — in my heart, we’re going to be carrying the hearts of millions of people, people from all over the world. We have to get denuclearization. We have to get something going. We really think that North Korea will be a tremendous place in a very short period of time. And we appreciate everything that’s going on. We appreciate the working together with North Korea. They’re really working very well with us.”

 “I can say that South Korea, Japan, China, many countries want to see it happen. And they’ll help. They’ll all help. So there’s a great — there’s really — this is a great time. This has not happened in all of the years that they’ve been separated by a very artificial boundary. This is a great opportunity for peace, and lasting peace, and prosperity.”

 “So we’re going in with a very positive spirit. I think very well prepared. I think — and, by the way, we have worked very well with their people. They have many people right now in Shanghai; our people have been — in Singapore. Our people have been working very, very well with the representatives of North Korea.”

“I think the minimum would be relationship. You’d start at least a dialogue. Because, you know, as a deal person, I’ve done very well with deals. What you want to do is start that. Now, I’d like to accomplish more than that. But at a minimum, I do believe, at least we’ll have met each other. We will have seen each other. Hopefully we will have liked each other and we’ll start that process.”

“So I would say that would be the minimal. And the maximum, I think you know the answer to that. But I think that will take a little bit of time.”

“How long will it take to figure out whether or not they’re serious? I said maybe in the first minute. You know, the way — they say that you know if you’re going to like somebody in the first five seconds. You ever hear that one? Well, I think that very quickly I’ll know whether or not something good is going to happen.”

“I also think I’ll know whether or not it will happen fast. It may not. But I think I’ll know pretty quickly whether or not, in my opinion, something positive will happen. And if I think it won’t happen, I’m not going to waste my time. I don’t want to waste his time.”

 “We’re going to raise every issue.”

June 7, 201815

“As I prepare to meet next week with Kim Jong Un — and I want to bring up the fact that the Prime Minister Abe and, also, President Moon of South Korea were extremely helpful, cooperative, and they’d like to see something happen.  It would be great for North Korea, South Korea.  It would be great for Japan, the United States, and the world.  Our partnership has been invaluable in reaching this important moment, and we will continue to be in very close communication in the weeks ahead, including the issue of Japanese abductees, which I know is of great personal importance to Prime Minister Abe.”

“I hope the upcoming meeting in Singapore represents the beginning of a bright new future for North Korea and indeed a bright new future for the world.  The denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula would usher in a new era of prosperity, security, and peace for all Koreans — for North and South — and for people everywhere.”

“I think, … that we are going to — we’re going to have a great success.  I don’t think it will be in one meeting.  I think it will take longer than that.  This has been going on for many, many decades.”

“As far as the Prime Minister (Shinzo Abe) is concerned, we will agree and we have agreed that we’re going to be helping — if the deal is done, we’re going to be helping North Korea.  We’re going to be working with China.  We’re going to be working with South Korea.”

President Xi of China has been terrific.  The border has been certainly more closed than ever before.  I’d like them to close it a little bit more, but it’s been more closed than ever before.  China has never worked with us this way.  And, you know, I give him a lot of credit because, as you know, we’re in a dispute as to the imbalance of trade.  It’s a massive imbalance in China’s favor.  It’s been that way for many decades, and it should have also been handled by previous Presidents.  But it wasn’t, so we’ll handle that too.”

“But I give President Xi tremendous credit, and I give President Moon tremendous credit.  He really would like to see something happen.  They’ve been living with the threat of war from their beginning, and it doesn’t make sense.  And I really believe that Kim Jong Un wants to do something.  I think he wants to see something incredible happen for the people of North Korea.”

“We could sign an agreement.  As you know, that would be a first step.  It’s what happens after the agreement that really is the big point.”

“We could absolutely sign an agreement.  We’re looking at it.  We’re talking about it with them.  We’re talking about it with a lot of other people.  But that could happen.  But that’s really the beginning.  Sounds a little bit strange, but that’s probably the easy part; the hard part remains after that.”

“Normalizing relations is something that I would expect to do, I would hope to do, when everything is complete.  We would certainly hope to do that.”

“I know that Prime Minister Abe and President Moon have told me, very strongly, that they are going to go and they will help them economically, tremendously.  Japan has a tremendous stake and so do they.  We, on the other hand, are very far away.  We’re very, very far away.”

“Japan will be helping.  I believe China will be helping economically, also.  And I think China wants to see something very good happen, very positive happen.  And certainly, South Korea has already stated their intentions.  They will be very helpful.”

“So there are lot of good factors lined up for North Korea.  A lot of tremendous factors that give it tremendous potential.  It has tremendous potential because the people are great.  And we would certainly like to see normalization, yes.”

“I am totally prepared to walk.  It could happen.  Maybe it won’t be necessary.  I hope it won’t be necessary to walk because I really believe that Kim Jong Un wants to do something that is going to be great for his people and also great for his family and great for himself.”

June 7, 201816

“This will not be just a photo op.  This will be — at a minimum, we’ll start with, perhaps, a good relationship.  And that’s something that’s very important toward the ultimate making of a deal.”

Mike Pompeo- Secretary of State

June 7, 201817

“President Trump has been very clear all along that he is prepared to provide North Korea with the security assurances, the warm political relationships that they want and are demanding in exchange for actions by North Korea, the denuclearization of the peninsula. The exact timing and the exact modalities of that occurring are yet to be agreed to, but the President is willing to do something big, something bold. I think that Chairman Kim Jong-un is prepared to do that as well. And then along with our partners – China, Japan, South Korea – we can all move forward together and have a fundamental shift in the relationship between North Korea and its region, and frankly, North Korea and the world.”

“I’m very confident that China will play a role. Indeed, they have already to date. They’ve been important partners in the pressure campaign, right? They’ve done things that they’ve never agreed to do before to encourage Chairman Kim and the North Koreans to consider whether they’re prepared to make a flip, right? They’ve relied historically on their nuclear program to provide their security, and what we’re asking them to do is to stand that on its head, to understand that it’s actually the possession of those nuclear weapons that create the greatest risk to North Korea. And so China has already been part of it in discussions between Chairman Kim and President Xi.”

“So yes, China will certainly have a part. The first step, however, will take place on June 12th, where President Trump and Chairman Kim will have a chance to meet and begin what we hope is a successful march towards the denuclearization of the peninsula.”

“We are prepared to do many things, but the economic sanctions themselves cannot be lifted until such time as we have confidence that the peninsula has been denuclearized.”

May 7, 201818

“President Trump has made clear that it is not likely that this will all fall away in a single meeting. He’s talked about that consistently. And in fact, there has been a great deal of work already done, so much preparation done by our team as well as preparation by President Trump. He is ready to meet Chairman Kim Jong-un and talk about this incredibly historic opportunity to truly, fundamentally change the relationship between North Korea and the world – importantly between North and South Korea, but fundamentally between North Korea and the world – and provide the security assurances that they need such that they are comfortable that denuclearization is something that they can achieve.”

“When you think about complete denuclearization, it would certainly be all of their sites, not just those that have been declared, right? So we’ve got to make sure that it’s complete. That takes a great deal of work, a great big commitment on the part of North Korea as well, and there’ll be a parallel set of security assurances that are also big and bold and different.”

“The summit is between the United States and North Korea, but the ultimate resolution of the problem will take lots of willing partners. Certainly, North Korea will have to make decisions, so will the United States, and so will China. North Korea has already made a number of decisions, and it’ll have to do more. Japan, too, will be central to the ultimate resolution here, because if you remember what we’re ultimately looking for, we’re looking for a safe, secure, and prosperous North Korea. That will only happen when its neighbors, the people in its region, are prepared to do the things that only they can do to make North Korea safe, secure, and prosperous.”

“It would be our expectation that the countries in the region would provide the initial financial support for just that; but over time, we would hope that, much like the other countries in the region, it would be able to achieve exactly what I described – a connected, safe, secure North Korea without outside assistance. It would be the opening up of the country, it would be their connectedness, it would be their ability to prosper on their own feet. The North Korean people are industrious people and they’re quite capable, and so we would hope that their – while it may take resources at the front end to assist them to move in that direction, but we have great confidence in the North Korean people to achieve this themselves over some period.”

June 7, 201819

“Our objective for the summit is very clear: We want to achieve a fundamentally different strategic relationship between our two countries. We are – we believe it’s important to (inaudible) completely denuclearize North Korea.

“In exchange for that, we’re prepared to do things that provide them the security assurances that they need and the warmer political relationship that they need as well. We’re hoping to make just as much progress on that as we can during the summit, and we believe that the two leaders sitting down together offers the world a great opportunity.”

“Chairman Kim’s got to make a big strategic decision. He has historically believed that his nuclear program provided security for his country, and to shift that to believe that security will come from a good relationship with the United States and the world is a big shift. We’re very hopeful that he’ll see it the way our President does. Our President is firmly prepared to make sure that Chairman Kim and the North Korean people will live in (inaudible) and with the security assurances that they are demanding.”

“For North Korea to have the security assurances it needs, it needs to know that it has an economic – economically viable path forward. It has to know that its people can eat and that they can have the wealth that the North Korean people so richly deserve. So these are very closely linked issues; it’s difficult to separate them out. And so not only Japan, but South Korea, China – I imagine many nations will want to participate in the North Korean economy if we are successful in Singapore.”

“Much like the economic opening that will take place, it will only take place at such time as we have completed the denuclearization. So there are other things that can go along in parallel, but the economic relief, the sanctions relief that President Trump spoke about earlier today, can’t take place until we see real action, real change, on the part of North Korea. And the Japanese economic support wouldn’t come until that was – that had occurred as well.”

June 7, 201820

“The United States and North Korea have been holding direct talks in preparation for a summit, and North Korea has confirmed to us its willingness to denuclearize. A comprehensive whole-of-government effort in support of President Trump’s upcoming summit is under way.”

“President Trump is hopeful, but he’s also going into the summit with his eyes wide open. We’ve seen how many inadequate agreements have been struck in the past. And you can be sure that President Trump will not stand for a bad deal. The United States has been clear, time and time again, that complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is the only outcome that we will find acceptable.”

“We are hopeful that we will put ourselves in a position where we can do something the previous administration didn’t do. Right? They signed a flimsy piece of paper, and we’re hoping to submit a document that Congress would also have a say in — that would give currency and strength and elongation to the process, so that when administrations do change, as they inevitably do, and this one will — six and half years from now — when that takes place, that Chairman Kim will have comfort that American policy will continue down the same path, on the course that we hope we’re able to set in Singapore.”

Donald Trump- President

June 5, 201821

“Meeting in Singapore with North Korea will hopefully be the start of something big...we will soon see!”

Sarah Sanders- Press Secretary

June 4, 201822

“On North Korea, we are actively preparing for the June 12 summit between the President and the North Korean leader.  The advance team in Singapore is finalizing logistical preparations and will remain in place until the summit begins.”

“In the DMZ, the U.S. Ambassador’s delegation continues diplomatic negotiations with the North Korean delegation.  Discussions have been very positive, and significant progress has been made.”

Jim Mattis- Secretary of Defense

June 3, 201823

“The DPRK issue. In almost all of my discussions, but it was a surprising commonality about, … a complete verifiable, irreversible, removal of WMD, of nuclear weapons and WMD.”

“On DPRK, one thing that keeps coming up is about our troop strength on the peninsula.  I'll say it again, I'm not making news here, the same thing -- we're not going anywhere.  It's not even a subject of the discussions.  You know, obviously there are there because of security conditions 10 years ago, five years ago, this year.”

“If five years from now, 10 years from now, it could be up for review, that would be between a democracy called the Republic of Korea and a democracy called the United States of America.”

June 2, 201824

"Obviously, if diplomats can do their work, if we can reduce the threat, if we can restore confidence-building measures with something verifiable, then of course this type of issue can come up subsequently between the two sovereign democracies -- the Republic of Korea and the United States."

"That issue is not on the table here in Singapore on the 12th (of June), nor should it be.”

"(The issue of scaling down the U.S. military presence in Korea or withdrawing the troops is) subject to, one, the Republic of Korea's invitation to have them there, and the discussions between the United States and the Republic of Korea, separate and distinct from the negotiations that are going on with the DPRK."

"North Korea will receive relief only when it demonstrates verifiable and irreversible steps to denuclarization."

Donald Trump- President

June 1, 201825

“The meeting went very well.  We’ll be meeting on June 12th in Singapore.  It went very well.  It’s really a get-to-know-you kind of a situation.”

“Mike has spent two days doing this.  We’ve gotten to know their people very well.  “

“And I think it’ll be a process.  It’s not — I never said it goes in one meeting.  I think it’s going to be a process.  But the relationships are building, and that’s a very positive thing.”

“ I think they want to do that.  I know they want to do that.  They want other things along the line.  They want to develop as a country.  That’s going to happen.  I have no doubt.  Japan is involved, as you know.  And South Korea is very much involved.  We’re involved in terms of getting everything.  Everybody wants the United States.  So we’re going to help in the process very much.  Without us, it wouldn’t happen.”

“But I think that you see a lot of very positive things, including with China.  I think you see a lot of very positive things happening with President Xi, who has helped me quite a bit with this.  So we’ll see where it leads.”

“But we’re going to be — June 12th, we’ll be in Singapore.  It will be a beginning.  I don’t say and I’ve never said it happens in one meeting.  You’re talking about years of hostility; years of problems; years of, really, hatred between so many different nations.  But I think you’re going to have a very positive result in the end.  Not from one meeting, but you’re going to have a very positive.”
May 31, 201826

“Very good meetings with North Korea.”

Mike Pompeo- Secretary of States

May 31, 201827

"Through these series of meetings, I'm confident we're moving in the right direction.”

"We've made real progress in the last 72 hours toward setting the conditions.”

“The conditions are putting President Trump and Chairman Kim Jong-un in a place where we think there could be real progress made by the two of them meeting."

"(North Korea appear to be)contemplating a path forward where they can make a strategic shift, one that their country has not been prepared to make before."

"There will be tough moments, there will be difficult times.”

 "I've had some difficult conversations with them as well. They've given it right back to me, too."

"Make no mistake about it. President Trump, this administration completely understands how hard this problem is.”

"There is a long history where North Korea has viewed its nuclear program as providing the security that it needed for the regime."

"Many conversations have been had about how we might proceed, what the path might be forward so that we can achieve both the denuclearization that the world demands of North Korea and the security assurances that would be required for them to allow us to achieve that.”

"We understand their concerns. We understand the risks that can be posed to them. And an agreement that we reach will provide an outcome that each of those countries can sign on to as well.”.

"The proposed summit offers a historic opening for President Trump and Chairman Kim to boldly lead the United States and the DPRK into an era of peace, prosperity and security.”

“Nothing short of tragic to let this opportunity go to waste.”

"We will have the opportunity to test whether or not this is the case."

May 31, 201828

"Substantive talks with the team from #NorthKorea. We discussed our priorities for the potential summit between our leaders."

"Good progress today during our meetings with Kim Yong Chol and his team. #NorthKorea and the world would benefit greatly from the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula."

Donald Trump – President

May 31, 201829

"I believe they'll be coming down to Washington on Friday and a letter is going to be delivered to me from Kim Jong-un.”

"So I look forward to seeing what's in the letter, but it's very important to them."

"I think it will be very positive."

Mike Pompeo- Secretary of States

May 30, 201830

"Looking forward to meeting with Kim Yong Chol in New York to discuss @Potus potential summit with Chairman Kim," Pompeo tweeted, using the shorthand for president of the United States. "We are committed to the complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula."

Sarah Sanders- Press Secretary, White House

May 30, 201831

"The conversation is going to be focused on denuclearization of the (Korean) peninsula.”

 "As long as that is part of the discussion, we're going to continue to shoot for the June 12th and expect to do that."

"The U.S. delegation, led by Ambassador Sung Kim, met with North Korean officials earlier today as well, and their talks will continue.”

"So far, the readout from these meetings has been positive, and we'll continue to move forward in them."

Donald Trump- President

May 29, 201832

“We have put a great team together for our talks with North Korea. Meetings are currently taking place concerning Summit, and more. Kim Young Chol, the Vice Chairman of North Korea, heading now to New York. Solid response to my letter, thank you!”  

Sarah Sanders- Press Secretary, White House

May 29, 201833

"Since the President's May 24th letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the North Koreans have been engaging.”

 "The United States continues to actively prepare for President Trump's expected summit with leader Kim in Singapore."

Donald Trump- President

May 27, 201834

“Our United States team has arrived in North Korea to make arrangements for the Summit between Kim Jong Un and myself. I truly believe North Korea has brilliant potential and will be a great economic and financial Nation one day. Kim Jong Un agrees with me on this. It will happen!”

Heather Neuart- Spokesperson, State Department

May 27, 201835

"A U.S. delegation is in ongoing talks with North Korean officials at Panmunjom. We continue to prepare for a meeting between the president and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.” 

Donald Trump – President

May 25, 201836

“We are having very productive talks with North Korea about reinstating the Summit which, if it does happen, will likely remain in Singapore on the same date, June 12th., and, if necessary, will be extended beyond that date.”

May 25, 201837

"We're going to see what happens. We're talking to them right now. It could even be the 12^th.”

"Very good news to receive the warm and productive statement from North Korea.”

"We will soon see where it will lead, hopefully to long and enduring prosperity and peace. Only time (and talent) will tell!"

Jim Mattis- Secretary of Defense

May 25, 201838

"We have got some, possibly some good news on the Korea summit, where it may, if our diplomats can pull it off, may have it back on even.”

 "Our president just sent out a note about that a few moments ago ... that is a usual give and take, you know, of trying to put together big summits and stuff. The diplomats are still at work."

"I am optimistic that the diplomats are working. Our diplomats are working very hard to make this happen."

Sarah Sanders- Press Secretary, White House

May 25, 201839

"Look, we're always going to be prepared and if the meeting takes place on June 12th, we'll be ready.” 

"Certainly we'd like to have a meeting, but the president is not just looking to have a meeting.”

 "He's not looking for just a cheap political stunt. He wants to get something that's a long-lasting and an actual real solution."

 Official- White House

May 24, 201840

"There has been a trail of broken promises that gave the United States pause.”

"On Secretary (of State Mike) Pompeo's second trip to Pyongyang, North Korea promised that the two sides would meet in Singapore last week, to jointly work on the logistical preparations for the summit.”

“(A White House advance team) waited and waited and the North Koreans never showed up.”

"The North Koreans didn't tell us anything. They simply stood us up."

  "That promise was broken ... we will not have forensic evidence that much was accomplished," he said. "It's possible that the tunnels are designed in a way that would still allow them to be used in the future."

 "A strange lack of judgment combined with broken promises over the past weeks and North Korea's suspension of direct communication with the United States suggests a profound lack of good faith.”

"The president was always clear that he was prepared to walk away from this meeting and he has kept his word."

"But the president's overarching goal isn't a meeting.”

 "It has always been the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. And the president will never compromise the safety and the security of the United States or our allies."

Donald Trump- President

May 24, 201841

"Our military, which is by far the most powerful anywhere in the world, that has been greatly enhanced recently, as you all know, is ready if necessary.”

"Likewise, I've spoken to South Korea and Japan, and they are not only ready should foolish or reckless acts be taken by North Korea, but they are willing to shoulder much of the cost of any financial burden, any other cost associated by the United States in operations if such an unfortunate situation is forced upon us.”

“If and when Kim Jong-un chooses to engage in constructive dialogue and actions."

"I am waiting.”

"In the meantime, our very strong sanctions, by far the strongest sanctions ever imposed, and maximum pressure campaign will continue as it has been continuing."

May 24, 201842

In a letter to North Korea leader, Kim Jong-un, President Trump said,

"We greatly appreciate your time, patience, and effort with respect to our recent negotiations and discussions relative to a summit long sought by both parties.”

 "Sadly, based on the tremendous anger and open hostility displayed in your most recent statement, I feel it is inappropriate, at this time, to have this long-planned meeting."

"Please let this letter serve to represent that the Singapore summit, for the good of both parties, but to the detriment of the world, will not take place.”

 "You talk about your nuclear capabilities, but ours are so massive and powerful that I pray to God they will never have to be used."

“I felt a wonderful dialogue was building up between you and me, and ultimately, it is only that dialogue that matters. Someday, I look very much forward to meeting you. In the meantime, I want to thank you for the release of the hostages who are now home with their families. That was a beautiful gesture and was very much appreciated.”

“If you change your mind having to do with this most important summit, please do not hesitate to call me or write. The world, and North Korea in particular, has lost a great opportunity for lasting peace and great prosperity and wealth. This missed opportunity is a truly sad moment in history.”

May 23, 201843

"I'd like to have it (denuclearization) done immediately, but you know, physically, a phase-in may be a little bit necessary." 

"It would have to be a rapid phase-in, but I'd like to see it done at one time."
"We have certain conditions. We'll see what happens.” 

May 23, 201844 

“On Singapore, we’re going to see.  And it could happen.  It could very well happen.  But whatever it is, it is.  We will know next week about Singapore.  And if we go, I think it will be a great thing for North Korea.” 

Mike Pompeo- Secretary of State

May 23, 201845

In a joint press conference with State Councilor and Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi, Secretary said

“We talked about preparations for the President’s June 12th meeting with Kim Jong-un. I had a chance to hear China’s perspective and appreciated their observations on the opportunity that is before the United States, the DPRK, and the world.”

“We discussed our firm commitment to maintain pressure on North Korea and to continue fully enforcing all relevant UN Security Council resolutions related to North Korea until we see and achieve the complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. We confirm today that we continue to expect all countries, including China, will meet their obligations and fully implement those measures.”

“China, the United States, the South Koreans, Japan – we are all fully committed to a bright future for the DPRK if Pyongyang is willing to denuclearize. Until that time arrives, the pressure will continue.”

May 23, 201846

“We’re already seeing this in the preparations for our historic meeting with North Korea, still scheduled for June 12th. We have a generational opportunity to resolve a major national security challenge. Our eyes are wide open to the lessons of history, but we’re optimistic that we can achieve an outcome that would be great for the world. Our posture will not change until we see credible steps taken towards the complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. “

"If the right deal is not on the table, we will respectfully walk away."
  "A bad deal is not an option.”

May 22, 201847

“I do have a real sense that he (Kim Jong-un) would find American investment, American technology, American know-how of real value to his people, and it’s something that he and I had a chance to speak about generally.”

Donald Trump- President

May 22, 201848

During a joint press conference with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, President Trump said,

“Obviously, North Korea is the big one.  No matter how big trade is, North Korea, in this case, is the big one.”

“The big topic will be Singapore and the meeting.  See what happens, whether or not it happens.  If it does, that will be great.  It will be a great thing for North Korea.  And if it doesn’t, that’s okay too.  Whatever it is, it is.”

“I do think he’s serious (about denuclearisation).  I think he would like to see that happen.  At the same time, he’s going into a future that’s different from what they’ve had.  But I think he’s absolutely very serious.”

“There are certain conditions that we want, and I think we’ll get those conditions.  And if we don’t, we don’t have the meeting.  And frankly, it has a chance to be a great, great meeting for North Korea and a great meeting for the world.  If it doesn’t happen, maybe it will happen later.  Maybe it will happen at a different time.  But we will see.”

“So there’s a very substantial chance that it won’t work out, and that’s okay.  That doesn’t mean it won’t work out over a period of time.  But it may not work out for June 12th.  But there’s a good chance that we’ll have the meeting.”

“There was a difference when Kim Jong-un left China the second time.”

“I think that President Xi is a world-class poker player.  And I’d probably, maybe, doing the same thing that he would do.  But I will say this: There was a somewhat different attitude after that meeting, and I’m a little surprised.  Now, maybe nothing happened.  I’m not blaming anybody, but I’m just saying, maybe nothing happened and maybe it did.”

“But there was different attitude by the North Korean folks when — after that meeting.  So I don’t think it was a great meeting.  Nobody knew about the meeting, and all of a sudden it was reported that he was in China a second time.  The first time everybody knew about.  The second time it was like a surprise.”

Mike Pence- Vice-President

May 22, 201849

"It would be a great mistake for Kim Jong Un to think he could play Donald Trump."

"There was some talk about the Libyan model last week, and you know, as the President made clear, this will only end like the Libyan model ended if Kim Jong Un doesn't make a deal.” 

When it was noted that the comparison could be interpreted as a threat, Pence told Fox News that "Well, I think it's more of a fact." 

Donald Trump- President

May 21, 201850

"China must continue to be strong & tight on the Border of North Korea until a deal is made. The word is that recently the Border has become much more porous and more has been filtering in. I want this to happen, and North Korea to be VERY successful, but only after signing!"

Mike Pompeo- Secretary of State

May 21, 201851

"Our willingness to meet with Kim Jong-un underscores the Trump administration's commitment to diplomacy to help solve the greatest challenges, even with our staunchest adversaries.”

"But that willingness has been accompanied by a painful pressure campaign that reflects our commitment to resolve this challenge forever.”

Steve Mnuchin- Treasury Secretary

May 21, 201852

"I don't think the president gets cold feet about anything.”

"So I think, as the president has said, right now it's still on. If that changes, you'll find out about it." 

South Korea

Song Young-moo- Defense Minister

June 2, 201853 

"Mr. Onodera (defense minister of Japan) talked about the promises (that North Korea broke). It's what happened in the past. Its leader has changed.”

"If we believe North Korea will trick us in the future as it did in the past, how can we negotiate with it and make peace?"

"(We) will not pursue the collapse of North Korea, absorption-based reunification and artificial unification.”

Kim Eui-kyeom – Spokesperson, Office of the President

June 2, 201854

"It seems as if the road to a North Korea-U.S. summit has become enhanced and expanded.”

"We will excitedly but calmly look forward to the historic meeting to be held in Singapore.”

Moon Jae-in- President

May 31, 201855

"Our economy will face a great change if South and North Korean relations improve and peace is established on the Korean Peninsula. We will also need to review in advance the role of our fiscal spending to support a new economic map on the Korean Peninsula in preparation for a resumption of economic cooperation between the South and the North."

Cho Myoung-gyon- Unification Minister

May 30, 201856 

"It (ongoing diplomacy) is an opportunity for us to reaffirm the strong resolve of the leaders vis-a-vis the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the U.S.-North Korea summit.”

"Though there have been twists and turns, things are in progress in a direction towards holding (the summit) as planned.”

"A series of events (over the past weeks) were a remainder that denuclearization and the process of establishing peace would not be that smooth.”

"What matters is that those in the negotiations walk towards one (shared) goal steadfastly as they try to narrow differences through incessant dialogue and expand common ground."

May 30, 201857

"I can say that the differences in stances between North Korea and the U.S. remain quite significant. It will not be easy to narrow the gap and find common ground but I think it would not be impossible.”

"Now that the leaders of the two countries are engaging in talks in a top-down manner, I think the chances are high that common ground can be found.”

"I can say that we have just entered the gate of denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.”

"There will be many challenges that need to be overcome."

Noh Kyu-duk- Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry

May 29, 201858

"As efforts to fine-tune summit-related issues in advance between the two sides are expected to unfold in earnest going forward, (we) will closely monitor the situation and play every role we can.”

Chung Eui-yong- Chief, National Security Office

May 29, 201859

"We are communicating with the U.S. every day."

Choo Mi-ae- Chief, DP (ruling party)

May 29, 201860

"South and North Korea, or the two Koreas and the United States, can announce an end to the Korean War before they clinch a peace treaty.”

"Some claim that the South is not a party to the armistice so it cannot be a signatory of a declaration of the war. But South Korea fought the war.”

Official- Office of the President

May 28, 201861

"The discussions are just getting started, so we are still waiting to see how they come out, but depending on their outcome, the president could join President Trump and Chairman Kim in Singapore.”

"Should the North Korea-U.S. summit succeed, I would like to see efforts to formally end the (Korean) war through a three-way summit of the South, the North and the U.S.”

Moon Jae-in- President

May 27, 201862

"Chairman Kim Jong-un has once again clearly expressed his commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula following his pledge in the Panmunjom Declaration and expressed his willingness to end the history of war and confrontation through the success of the North Korea-U.S. summit.”

"We two leaders agreed the June 12 North Korea-U.S. summit must be successfully held.”

"While explaining the outcome of my summit with U.S. President Trump held last week, I relayed the message that President Trump is firmly willing to end his country's hostile relationship with North Korea and enhance economic cooperation should Chairman Kim make a decision on complete denuclearization and implements it.”

"Also, as both Chairman Kim and President Trump sincerely wish for the success of the North-U.S. summit, I stressed the need for the two sides to remove any misunderstanding through direct communication and to hold enough dialogue on agenda issues that need to be addressed at their summit.”

"Chairman Kim also agreed."

"Chairman Kim Jong-un once again clearly affirmed that his commitment to complete denuclearization remains firm yesterday. What remains uncertain to Chairman Kim Jong-un is whether he can trust the U.S. promise to end their hostile relationship and guarantee North Korea's security once the North denuclearizes.”

"All the efforts I am making now are aimed at improving the South-North Korea relationship on one hand, but on the other hand, they are also aimed at holding the North Korea-U.S. summit that is absolutely needed to improve the South-North .”

"I believe whether the June 12 North Korea-U.S. summit will be disrupted or succeed depends on how successfully (the North and the U.S.) complete their working-level negotiations.”

"Should the North Korea-U.S. summit succeed, I would like to see efforts to formally end the (Korean) war through a three-way summit of the South, the North and the U.S.”

"I wish to place a great meaning on the latest talks that were held as if they were an ordinary event between friends.”

"I am convinced that this is the way that South and North Korea must meet."

Yoon Young-chan- Press Secretary, Office of the President

May 25, 201863

"NSC members agreed that it is important for our government to continue its efforts to improve inter-Korean relations in accordance of the April 27 Panmujom Declaration and that such efforts will contribute to improving U.S.-North Korea ties and building momentum for a complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.”

"It will be much more effective for them to communicate in a direct way to grasp what the other party has in mind.”

"At a time when the U.S.-North summit has hit a snag, there is a need for direct and open communication channels between them.”

 "The South will do its best to bring peace to the peninsula as long as a thread of hope is alive."

Moon Jae-in- President

May 24, 201864

"Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and the establishment of permanent peace are historic tasks that can neither be abandoned nor delayed.”

"I am very perplexed and it is very regrettable that the North Korea-U.S. summit will not be held on June 12 when it was scheduled to be held.”

"It may be difficult to resolve the sensitive and difficult diplomatic issues through such methods of communication currently being employed.”

"I hope (the countries) will resolve such issues through more direct and close dialogue between their leaders.”

Noh Kyu-duk- Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry

May 24, 201865

"We are closely analyzing the remarks (Choe made) that the (North-U.S.) summit will be reconsidered.”

"The government is in close consultations with the U.S and other relevant countries to make sure the goal of compete denuclearization agreed upon in the inter-Korean summit is achieved through such talks as the summit between the North and the U.S.”

Yoon Young-chan- Press Secretary Office of the President

May 26, 201866

"President Moon Jae-in held a second summit with Chairman Kim Jong-un at Tongil-gak on the North Korean side of Panmunjom from 3 p.m. through 5 p.m. on (May) 26.”

"The two leaders exchanged their candid views on the implementation of the April 27 Panmunjom Declaration and successful opening of the North-U.S. summit.”

Cho Myoung-gyon – Unification Minister

May 26, 201867

"Any predicament and challenge should be overcome through dialogue with all involved parties respecting each other and putting themselves in the other's position.”

"Denuclearization and permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula are a task that we can never give up on, nor put on the back burner.”

May 25, 201868

"Our government will do its part in carrying out the Panmunjom Declaration.”

"It appears that (the North) remains sincere in implementing the agreement and making efforts on denuclearization and peace building.”

May 23, 201869

"We are in the beginning stage.”

"In order to recover inter-Korean relations and advance them in a stable manner after about a 10-year-long hiatus, we need to make much greater efforts than we have made so far.”

Moon Jae-in – President

May 22, 201870

"I am very well aware that there are skeptical views in the U.S. on whether the North Korea-U.S. summit would succeed and if complete denuclearization of North Korea would be realized.”

"However, there may never been any development in history should we remain skeptical and expect failure just because we have failed before."

May 22, 201871

During a joint press conference with US President Donald Trump, President Moon Jae-in said,

“Thanks to your vision of achieving peace through strength, as well as your strong leadership, we’re looking forward to the first-ever U.S.-North Korea summit.  And we find ourselves standing one step closer to the dream of achieving complete denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula and world peace.”

“All this was possible because of you, Mr. President.  And I have no doubt that you will be able to complete — accomplish a historic feat that no one had been able to achieve in the decades past.”

“I have to say that the fate and the future of the Korean Peninsula hinge on this.  And as such, I’ll spare no effort to the end to support the success of the upcoming U.S.-North Korea summit, and stand with you all along the way, Mr. President.”

“I am very much aware that there are many skeptical views within the United States about whether the upcoming U.S.-North Korea summit will truly be successful and whether the complete denuclearization of North Korea will be realized.”

“But I don’t think there will be positive developments in history if we just assume that because it all failed in the past, it will fail again.”

“There have been many agreements between the United States and North Korea previously, but this will be the first time that there will be an agreement between the leaders.”

“And, moreover, the person who is in charge is President Trump.  And President Trump has been able to achieve this dramatic and positive change that you see right now. “

“And I believe that all of this will lead to a great thing, that it will also guarantee the security of the North Korean regime, and also promise peace and prosperity for North Korea as well.”

May 22, 201872

"You two (Mike Popmpeo and John Bolton) play key roles in U.S. security and foreign relations and the people of South Korea expect a great deal from you two because we are in a very critical period of time to determine the fate and future of South Korea or the Korean Peninsula." 

Yoon Young-chan- Press  Secretary, Office of the President

May 22, 201873

"President Moon said many people may hold a negative view of North Korea that they may have been deceived while negotiating with North Korea over the past 25 years, but highlighted the fact that the ongoing negotiations are completely different from those of the past in that they directly involve the North's highest leader, who is seeking a security guarantee and economic development and has declared to pursue complete denuclearization for the first time in history."

May 22, 201874

"(He) especially urged the U.S. officials to continue preparing for the summit calmly and without any second thoughts, insisting that Chairman Kim Jong-un certainly remains committed to the success of the North Korea-U.S. summit."

"President Moon especially asked them to continue consulting with North Korea for the success of the North Korea-U.S. summit, and highlighted the fact that our government too will do its utmost to help successfully hold the upcoming North Korea-U.S. summit.” 

Chung Eui-yong- Chief, National Security Office 

May 21, 201875 

"We believe there is a 99.9 percent chance the North Korea-U.S. summit (set for June 12 in Singapore) will be held as scheduled.” 

"But we're just preparing for many different possibilities." 

China

Hua Chunying- Spokesperson, Foreign Ministry

June 1, 201876

“China noted that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has just visited the DPRK, during which he met with Chairman Kim Jong Un and held talks with his counterpart Ri Yong Ho. The DPRK reiterated its position on denuclearization and highlighted that its will in the denuclearization of the Peninsula remains unchanged, consistent and firm. The Russian side said that it supports the peace process of the Peninsula and welcomes the interactions between the DPRK and ROK as well as between the DPRK and the US. China believes that the message sent out by the DPRK and Russia is positive and China welcomes it.”

“Russia is a close neighbor to the Korean Peninsula and a member of the Six-Party Talks. It has been committed to upholding the peace and stability of the Peninsula and promoting the settlement of the Korean Peninsula issue through political and diplomatic means. China welcomes Russia's positive role in advancing the denuclearization of the Peninsula and promoting the political settlement process of the Peninsula issue.”

“China welcomes the development of bilateral ties and the enhancement of high-level exchanges on the part of the DPRK and Russia. We believe that this is conducive to promoting the political settlement process of Korean Peninsula issue and upholding the peace and stability of the Peninsula and the Northeast Asia.”

Lu Kang – Spokesman, Foreign Ministry

May 27, 201877

"We think a person-to-person encounter and dialogue between the leaders of North Korea and the U.S. is the key to solving problems.”

"We hope both the North and the U.S. show patience and good faith to focus on resolving concerns and carry out the process to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula.”

"China unwaveringly supports the hosting of the North-U.S. summit,"

May 25, 201878

“China has always played a positive and constructive role on the Korean Peninsula issue without any ulterior motive at all. China stays committed to the goal of the denuclearization of the Peninsula, upholding the peace and stability on the Peninsula and resolving the Peninsula issue through dialogue and negotiation. This position remains unchanged all along. This is what we said more than 10 years ago and keep saying until today; we said so to the leader of the US as well as of the DPRK. At the same time, the political settlement of the Peninsula nuclear issue through dialogue calls for all the relevant parties, especially the directly concerned parties, to meet each other halfway and send goodwill to each other. Relevant parties shall think about how they are doing in this regard.”

“Second, as to whether a more prominent role on the Peninsula nuclear issue will enable China to strengthen its hand on other issues, I would say there's no need to read too much into that. China's stance on the Peninsula nuclear issue remains unchanged and its position on its trade ties with the US is also explicit and open. We believe that the China-US trade relations are mutually beneficial in essence, and hope the US leaders and government will bear the global economic growth and the interests of American consumers and business community in mind, work with China for the shared goal to properly resolve the differences and problems in our trade ties. This serves the interests of both sides and of the world at large.”

“The US is an important member of the international community. We certainly hope that the US government could work alongside the majority of the international community, stick to multilateralism, and resolve issues through political and diplomatic means within the multilateral framework. As for the specific issues you mentioned, whether it is the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue, the Iranian nuclear issue, or the global trade issue, including some concrete problems in China-US relations, China's positions on them are quite clear. We maintain that China-US relations shall be moved forward on the basis of mutual trust, equality, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, and bilateral cooperation shall be strengthened in various fields. We also hope that other members of the international community, including the US, could follow this principle and commit themselves to a right path of forging a new type of international relations.”

May 24, 201879

“We hope the US and the DPRK will cherish the rare opportunity at this point to enable the success of their summit and ensure positive outcomes. As to your question about whether the DPRK truly means to give up its nuclear weapons, I believe you may have all noticed that recently, both the major strategic decision made by the 3rd Plenary Session of the 7th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea and the policy announcement by the DPRK supreme leader and senior officials have explicitly indicated that the DPRK will commit itself to realizing the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and it also shows its readiness for dialogue and negotiation with the US on this. I would like to reiterate that we hope the dialogue will be held as soon as possible with positive outcomes.”

May 23, 201880

China has been encouraging and supporting the US and the DPRK's efforts to accumulate mutual trust through direct dialogues and move forward the political settlement of the Korean Peninsula issue. You may all have noticed that the US and the DPRK are continuing with their preparations for the meeting. We hope that the two sides could seize the opportunity, stick to dialogues, meet each other halfway, remain undisturbed and endeavor to realize their meeting. China stands ready to continue playing a part in it.

Wang Yi- State Councilor and Foreign Minister

May 23, 201881

“On the Korean nuclear issue that is at the center of attention, we also exchanged views. I listened to the analysis of Mr. Secretary on the recent development of the situation and his perspectives. I want to tell you that, first of all, China is firmly committed to denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. This position will not change. At the same time, we believe that in achieving the process or the goal of denuclearization, it is necessary to address the legitimate security concerns of the DPRK at an appropriate time, and along with the realization of denuclearization, it is important to establish a long-term and effective peace mechanism on the Korean Peninsula.”

“And second, China firmly supports the meeting between the United States and the DPRK leaders. Direct and – contact and dialogue between the leaders is key to addressing the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula. We look forward to seeing the meeting take place as scheduled and be successful. We believe that President Trump and Chairman Kim Jong-un are fully able and they have the wisdom to make the right decision and bring peace to the Korean Peninsula and bring good news to the world.”

“And thirdly, China firmly honors its due international obligation. We will continue to fully and strictly implement UN Security Council resolutions on the DPRK and continue to work to maintain peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula.” 

Russia

Vladimir Putin-President

June 6, 201882

"I do hope that the courageous and mature decision to hold a personal meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un that US President Trump made… that the meeting will take place, we all will be waiting for it to produce positive results.”

"We can see that the North Korean leadership has taken unprecedented steps to ease tensions, which frankly speaking, surprised me.  First, they announced the suspension of nuclear tests. Moreover, they dismantled one of their largest nuclear test sites. These undoubtedly were practical steps towards denuclearization."

"I can understand the North Korean authorities when they say that total denuclearization requires absolute security guarantees. Nothing else is possible, particularly in light of the tragic events that took place in Libya and Iraq. The North Koreas must remember it all vividly so it is only natural that they demand guarantees.”

“It is hard to say at the moment what form these guarantees may take and how long it will take to implement all this."

"However, it is possible to say - and it should be said - that there is a need to move forward along this path leading to easing of tensions and denuclearization.”

"As for the Korean Peninsula, as diplomats say, our positions are close or coincide. The latter, actually.”

"We initiated the so-called road map to resolve the situation on the Korean Peninsula. China has done a lot recently to achieve this goal, to ease tensions a little. We are pleased to see it and will continue to support it in every possible way. Implies that at the next stage relations between all the countries responsible for easing tensions should be enhanced."

June 4, 201883

"I do not even want to think about that (a nuclear war between North Korea and the United States). We are scared at the mere thought of it. If there is someone who is not interested in that, it is we. North Korea is our neighbor. The test site, which has been destroyed in North Korea, is located 190 kilometers away from Russia’s border, if I am not mistaken. That’s very important for us, and we will do our utmost to ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula."

Artyom Kozhin- Deputy Director, Information and Press Department, Foreign Ministry

June 1, 201884

“We noted a media report that a representative of the US Department of State had called on Russia to cooperate with Washington on Korean matters instead of acting against the US on that threat. If this remark indeed reflects the position of the US foreign policy agency, this can only raise eyebrows.”

“During Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s visit to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on May 31 and his meeting with Chairman of the State Affairs Commission Kim Jong-un and Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho, the Russian side announced its support of Pyongyang’s and Washington’s efforts to normalise bilateral relations and expressed hope for a successful North Korea–US summit. In addition, the roadmap that Russia and China proposed for a settlement between the two Korean states stipulates direct North Korea-US dialogue.”

“It is clear that the process of rapprochement between the US and North Korea and the decision to abandon hostilities and mistrust, without which it would be impossible to reach any sustainable agreements, will take a long time and require well-calibrated steps towards each other. This is why we are calling on the sides to refrain from unreasonably high expectations and impossible demands that could torpedo the negotiation process. We hope that a sensible approach will prevail and Washington will start looking for compromises aimed at establishing a lasting peace in Northeast Asia instead of “a black cat that isn’t there.””

Dmitry Peskov- Spokesperson, Kremlin

June 1, 201885

Commenting on a report of North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) that there is an agreement to hold the meeting of  North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin this year, Kremlin spokesperson said,

"Yes, indeed, this meeting may take place, its modalities and time will be further agreed via diplomatic channels.”

Lavrov- Foreign Minister

May 31, 201886

“We welcome the contacts between North Korea and South Korea and between North Korea and the United States, which have been developing rapidly over the past few months, as well as the Pyongyang-Seoul summits and the planned summit meeting between the leaders of North Korea and the United States. We attach great importance to adopting a judicious approach to these contacts without any rash actions or attempts to rush this process, which needs careful consideration and coordination of all elements of a package decision. This will allow us not only to denuclearise the Korean Peninsula but also to bring lasting peace and stability to the whole of Northeast Asia.”

“We urge all the countries involved to bear in mind their responsibility for preventing this fragile process from being derailed. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, a participant of the six-party talks and a good neighbour of North Korea, Russia is ready to contribute to these efforts. Our North Korean friends welcome this attitude.”

“We discussed certain steps that can be made towards this, including the old idea of launching trilateral projects between the two Korean states and Russia to link their railway networks and to build a gas pipeline as well as energy projects. The desire to re-unite the railway systems expressed by the leaders of North Korea and South Korea at their meeting in Panmunjom has given a new lease on life to these trilateral cooperation initiatives.”

“I would like to say once again that Russia and North Korea hold a common view on the need to take an extremely careful attitude to the current development of contacts and the nascent normalisation of relations between the two Korean states and between North Korea and the United States, and to resist the temptation to demand everything at once. We know that this is an extremely complicated problem and that the goal of denuclearisation is inseparably connected with the eventual restoration of peace, stability and a system of interaction, cooperation and equal and indivisible security in Northeast Asia.”

May 31, 201887

"Touching on sanctions, this is absolutely clear that starting this discussion about solving the Korean Peninsula’s nuclear problem, we believe that it cannot be full until sanctions are removed.”

"But how to move forward to this, that’s about the art of negotiators. But this cannot be done in one move."

"It is impossible in one move to ensure denuclearization, that’s why certainly there should be some stages and there should be the oncoming traffic at each of these stages.” 

Vladimir Putin- President

May 25, 201888

"We believe that direct talks between the United States and North Korea at any, by the way, level and, what is more, at the highest level are of the utmost importance and without those talks the knotty issue of the Korean Peninsula denuclearization is unlikely to be resolved.”

"To my mind, North Korea should be given guarantees of sovereignty and inviolability in order to talk about complete denuclearization of North Korea. They are guarantees of an opportunity to decide on their own future."

May 24, 201889

"We, Russia, have taken this news (Trump’s announcement of cancelling meeting with Kim Jong-un) with regret, as we all expected a major step will be made towards easing tensions on the Korean peninsula, and that this will launch the process of denuclearization of the whole Korean peninsula.”

"We hope that a dialogue will be restarted, will continue, and a meeting will take place. Without this meeting we can hardly expect sizable progress in the settlement of an extremely important issue, not just a regional one, but I think a global issue. We will be working all together to bring closer the positions of the US and North Korea.” 

Dmitry Peskov- Spokesperson, Kremlin

May 24, 201890

"We will hope for a positive outcome. You know that Russia plans to have contacts between Russian and North Korean representatives, and they are expected at a diplomatic level.”

"We will hope for the better: that we will be able to keep this impulse in the settlement,"

"Moscow has a consistent, well known position.”

"We want the countries to avoid any steps that could lead to further escalation of tensions on the peninsula."

"And, moreover, we are against damaging the fragile settlement process that just emerged.”

"Of course, we wouldn’t want it to be damaged."

Maria Zakharova- Spokesperson, Foreign Minister

May 23, 201891

“I saw all these statements and the headlines that the US had threatened North Korea with a Libyan scenario. I have many questions to ask the US expert community. I think you do too. Whom did the “Libyan scenario” harm more? Muammar Gaddafi is dead. The people of Libya? Yes. But if we speak about the Western world, didn’t it suffer too? The first sufferer is Italy that for a number of years doesn’t know how many more international forums to hold to solve the problem of the “Libyan scenario.” In fact, while threatening North Korea with the “Libyan scenario,” the US is threatening the entire region, not only Pyongyang alone.” 

Japan

Shinzo Abe- Prime Minister

June 7, 201892

 “I wish to directly face North Korea and talk with them so that abduction problem be resolved quickly.  To this end, I am determined to take all possible means.”

“On behalf of the citizens of Japan, I would like to thank President Trump and the people of the United States for their understanding and support toward the resolution of the abduction issue.”

“Japan will continue to ask for complete implementation of the successive United Nations Security Council resolutions.  There is no change at all for Japan’s policy to seek comprehensive solution of the abduction, nuclear and missile programs, and to realize real peace in the Northeast Asia.  This is what Japan strongly hopes for.”

“Now, a major step forward is about to be taken.  Donald, President Trump, you are about to make a new history.  Not only Japan, but the whole international community is strongly looking forward for the United States-North Korea summit to open doors toward peace and stability of the Northeast Asia.”

“North Korea abounds with rich natural resources.  North Korea has a diligent workforce.  If North Korea is willing to take steps toward the right direction, North Korea can see a bright future ahead for itself.  Japan, based on the Japan-North Korea Pyongyang Declaration, is prepared to settle the unfortunate past, to normalize our diplomatic relations, and to provide economic cooperation.  Japan wishes to play the role as much as possible.  Donald, I value highly your strong commitment to world peace and prosperity.”

“On the issue of abduction, we have to resolve this problem.  With Abe administration, this is of the highest priority.  And if anything contributes to that resolution, if the talk leads to the solution of the problem between U.S. and North Korea or between Japan and North Korea, the meetings we wish to have on the issue of abduction in the final analysis Chairman Kim Jong Un and me, between Japan and North Korea, problem has to be solved.  Of course, for Japan, missile issue and nuclear issue very important.”

“Nuclear issue, missile issue, regarding these issues, at the U.S. and North Korea summit meeting — first and foremost, I’m hopeful for the progress.  And then, on the issue of abduction, we will liaise — we will collaborate with the U.S. and international community.  And Japan, ourselves, must talk directly with North Korea in the final analysis.  I am determined about that.” 

Taro Kono- Foreign Minister

 June 5, 201893

 “In the lead-up to the US-North Korea summit, I intend to confirm the additional necessary matters between Japan and the United States; furthermore I intend to go to the US in order to properly carry out the necessary tasks that must be carried out before the summit meeting.”

 “Japan has told the United States that if a comprehensive resolution of the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue can be achieved, Japan is ready to normalize diplomatic relations and in that case Japan is prepared to provide economic support to North Korea.”

 May 29, 201894

 “I do not think it is necessary to be swayed by each and every development that emerges. From the international community’s perspective, what is important is for the international community to continue to maintain its solidarity and apply pressure on North Korea. Therefore, regardless of whether or not the summit meeting is held, or even after the summit meeting is potentially held, it is important to firmly maintain pressure on North Korea until it achieves complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization. It is necessary to reaffirm that this is not a matter that will be swayed by each and every development that emerges.”