Trump-North Korea talks might soon resume, as former U.S. President Donald Trump remains open to meeting Kim Jong-un. A White House official confirmed this Friday, following a wave of new sanctions aimed at disrupting Pyongyang’s illegal revenue activities.
The latest measures came Thursday, when the Trump administration announced sanctions against North Korea. These included rewards for tips on seven North Korean nationals involved in fundraising for nuclear weapons and missile programs.
The White House said these individuals helped finance Pyongyang’s weapons by sending IT workers overseas and engaging in cryptocurrency theft. They also reportedly smuggled oil and trafficked counterfeit goods.
Despite these crackdowns, Trump-North Korea engagement remains on the table. According to the White House, Trump still supports dialogue and believes denuclearization is achievable through direct diplomacy.
The official emphasized Trump’s historical meetings with Kim Jong-un. During his first term, Trump met Kim three times—in Singapore in 2018, Hanoi in 2019, and again at Panmunjom the same year. Many saw these summits as major steps in easing tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
“President Trump remains committed to the same goals,” the official said. “He is willing to meet Kim again if it helps achieve full denuclearization.”
This response came amid questions about whether the new sanctions indicate a shift away from diplomacy. Some observers believe the pressure campaign could signal a harder stance, but Trump’s statements suggest otherwise.
Just last month, Trump claimed he would resolve any future conflict with North Korea. His remark fueled speculation that he might revive talks with Kim.
The sanctions package reflects frustration with North Korea’s continuing weapons development. U.S. officials warned that Washington will not ignore Pyongyang’s efforts to finance destabilizing programs.
They highlighted a pattern of illegal activity, including sending North Korean tech workers abroad to earn foreign currency. That money, officials said, is then funneled into weapons projects.
Still, Trump insists on engagement. His previous summits aimed to build trust and halt nuclear escalation. The new measures seem to be aimed at pressuring Pyongyang back to the table.
Whether Kim responds remains uncertain. However, Trump’s stance indicates a door remains open for future talks—provided denuclearization stays the goal.
